The Premier League's hopes of securing a fifth Champions League spot for next season received a blow on Wednesday night. As part of the new format for Europe's elite club competition, the two nations which perform best across the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League are handed European Performance Spots (EPS) by UEFA. There are also bonus points for progressing through the knockout rounds - 1.5 in the Champions League, 1 in the Europa League and 0.5 in the Conference League. This follows bonus points that were awarded for finishing positions in various league phases, with the Champions League again having a stronger weighting. Those teams chasing a Champions League spot this season may now find themselves cheering on Villa, Forest and Palace on Thursday night.

Source: Daily Mail March 12, 2026 10:31 UTC