Newcastle United host a struggling Manchester United side on Sunday with their Champions League destiny firmly in their own hands, following confirmation that the Premier League will have at least five spots in next season’s competition.
Eddie Howe’s side, currently fifth (53 points) and level on points with fourth-placed Chelsea but with a game in hand, are enjoying a strong end to the season. Having already ended their long trophy drought by winning the Carabao Cup in March, and without the distraction of European football this term (unlike last season where their Champions League participation coincided with a league drop-off), Newcastle have won their last three league games.
The confirmation earlier this week that England secured an extra Champions League place via UEFA’s coefficient rankings significantly boosts Newcastle’s chances. The battle for the fourth and fifth spots remains intense, with Manchester City (6th, 52 points) and Aston Villa (7th, 51 points) also in close contention. Fulham (48 points) and Brighton (47 points) retain outside chances with seven games remaining after this weekend.
“That was the biggest challenge for us [staying focused after the cup win], I can’t compliment them enough,” Howe said, praising his “humble group.” He acknowledged the tough upcoming fixtures against United, Crystal Palace (Wednesday), and Aston Villa, stating, “We have three really tough games, and that will go a long way in seeing where we are… We’re in a better position than we were, but there’s still a lot of work to do.”
Their opponents, Manchester United, languish in 13th place under Ruben Amorim, having won only two of their last eight league matches. Their focus appears to be on the Europa League as a potential route back into European competition.
Elsewhere This Weekend
- Man City vs Crystal Palace: Sixth-placed City face a crucial home game against an in-form Crystal Palace, who are unbeaten in five under Oliver Glasner. City midfielder Mateo Kovacic stressed the importance of securing Champions League football: “It will be tough until the end… But we are confident.”
- Title Race: Leaders Liverpool host West Ham, while second-placed Arsenal, 11 points behind, welcome Brentford.
- European Race: Third-placed Nottingham Forest host Everton.
- Relegation Battle: Leicester City, 15 points from safety and on an eight-game losing streak without scoring, face Brighton. A loss, combined with a Wolves win over Tottenham, would all but confirm their relegation. Leicester’s James Justin described the mood as a “horrible moment.” Already relegated Southampton host Aston Villa.
The Premier League weekend promises high stakes at both ends of the table as the season enters its critical final phase.
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