The curtain fell on the 2025/26 Premier League season with a dramatic final day that decided the European fate of several clubs. While Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Aston Villa had already secured their spots in the Champions League before Sunday’s matches, the day’s results completed the European qualification picture.
Liverpool clinched the fifth and final Champions League berth despite a 1-1 draw at home against Brentford. The Reds’ point was enough to edge out rivals and confirm their place among Europe’s elite.
Bournemouth’s hopes of a top-five finish were dashed as they were held to a 1-1 draw at Nottingham Forest. The Cherries narrowly missed out on Champions League football but will instead compete in the Europa League.
Sunderland also booked their Europa League ticket with a gritty 2-1 victory over a Chelsea side reduced to ten men at the Stadium of Light. The Black Cats’ win secured their return to European competition after a lengthy absence.
Brighton & Hove Albion claimed the final European spot—a place in the Europa Conference League—despite suffering a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Manchester United. Their prior performances ensured they finished high enough to qualify for the third-tier competition.