The race for Champions League qualification looks set to be fiercely competitive. Surprisingly, Manchester United, despite an unbeaten streak of five matches, may struggle to secure a top-four spot. Opta predicts the Red Devils could finish 8th with 56.32 points, potentially missing out on European football for a second consecutive season—a scenario that would be catastrophic for the club.
Instead, Aston Villa, Crystal Palace, and Brighton are expected to capitalize on the opportunity to finish in the top seven. Villa, currently fourth, could seal a Champions League berth with 62.19 points, while Crystal Palace might enjoy back-to-back European qualification with 61.21 points. Brighton rounds out the top seven at 57.64 points, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the mid-table race.
Newcastle United and Bournemouth are projected to round off the top half, finishing with 56 and 54.9 points respectively. Meanwhile, Tottenham, despite the league’s spotlight on north London, are predicted to struggle, finishing in 11th place with 54.08 points—another disappointing campaign for Thomas Frank’s side.