With just a handful of matches left in the Premier League season, things are really starting to get interesting.
While Arsenal and Liverpool seem to have their Champions League tickets pretty much booked, the real drama lies just below them — where five teams are locked in a fierce battle for the remaining three spots in Europe’s top competition.
And just to spice things up a bit more? Opta’s super-computer has crunched the numbers and laid out what each of these clubs needs to do to make it into next year’s Champions League.
Who’s in the Running?
Right now, it’s Chelsea, Manchester City, Newcastle United, Nottingham Forest, and Aston Villa who are all still in with a shot.
They’re sitting close together on the table, separated by just a couple of points, and with only five games to go, every single result is going to count.
Currently, Newcastle are in third with 59 points, while Aston Villa, in seventh, are just two points behind on 57.
Sandwiched in between them? Chelsea, Forest, and of course, City. The race is tight, and it’s far from over.
What Does It Take to Qualify?
According to Opta’s calculations, the magic number is 66 points.
That’s the minimum total teams will likely need to hit to secure one of those three open spots.
For Chelsea, Forest, and Villa — all sitting on 57 points — that means they’ll need to find at least nine more points from their final five fixtures.
That’s no easy feat, especially with the kind of opponents they’re about to face.
Breaking Down the Fixtures
Nottingham Forest
Forest may have the upper hand when it comes to fixtures.
They not only have a game in hand, but their remaining matchups are seen as more favorable.
That, combined with their current momentum, could give them the edge they need.
Chelsea
Things are a bit trickier for Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea side.
They’ve still got big clashes ahead, including games against Liverpool and Manchester United.
That’s a tough road if they want to secure their Champions League comeback.
Aston Villa
Villa are also in for a bumpy ride. With fixtures lined up against Tottenham, Manchester United, and Manchester City, their route to Europe is steep.
The super-computer isn’t too optimistic about their chances — and neither might their fans be after looking at that list.
What About City and Newcastle?
Manchester City
City are in a slightly more comfortable spot. They only need eight points from their last five games.
And with Fulham, Bournemouth, Wolves, and Southampton on the schedule — aside from a clash with Villa — they’ll be feeling pretty confident.
Newcastle United
Newcastle are the closest to the finish line, needing just seven more points to hit that 66-point benchmark.
But the path isn’t all smooth sailing. Arsenal, Chelsea, and Brighton await them — and none of those matches are easy wins.
The Super-Computer Makes Its Call
So, who does Opta’s artificial brain think will actually make it?
According to the predictions, Manchester City will finish third on 68 points, with Newcastle following closely behind at 67.
And the big surprise? The super-computer has Nottingham Forest snatching the fifth and final Champions League spot.
That would mark Forest’s first return to Europe’s elite competition since all the way back in 1980. Talk about a comeback story.
Who Misses Out?
Sadly for Villa and Chelsea, the numbers don’t quite work out in their favor.
If this prediction holds, both clubs will instead find themselves playing in the Europa League next season — not exactly the dream, but still a decent consolation prize.
What’s Next?
As the season nears its final chapters, every match will feel like a final.
Whether you’re a fan cheering from the stands or glued to your screen at home, buckle up — it’s going to be a thrilling finish.
And if you’ve got thoughts on who’s making it to Europe — drop a comment, send a message, or join the conversation. This one’s far from over.