The Premier League title is wrapped up, and relegation confirmed — but the race for Champions League qualification is still wide open with just two matchweeks remaining.
Liverpool have already secured their place among Europe’s elite next season, while second-placed Arsenal are on the brink of joining them. However, just four points separate Newcastle in third from Nottingham Forest in seventh, meaning the final two rounds could produce dramatic twists.
Newcastle eye Arsenal leap
Eddie Howe’s Newcastle have been in fine form since their League Cup triumph and head into Sunday’s clash against Arsenal brimming with confidence. A win at the Emirates would see the Magpies leapfrog the Gunners into second place. Arsenal, once Liverpool’s closest challengers, have stumbled recently, winning only one of their last six league outings.
“We still have two games to go and anything can happen,” said Howe. “We have to drive forward and stay focused.”
Villa and Chelsea could steal a march
Aston Villa and Chelsea both play on Friday and can gain an early edge over their rivals. Villa, who have quietly kept up their form despite setbacks in Europe and the FA Cup, will host Tottenham — who may rest players ahead of the Europa League final. A win could push Villa into the top four.
Chelsea, level on points with Villa but boasting a superior goal difference, face Manchester United — another Europa finalist expected to rotate. Victory would see the Blues climb into third, piling pressure on Newcastle.
Forest facing late collapse
Nottingham Forest, who have spent most of the season in the top four, have hit poor form at the worst time. A disappointing 2-2 draw against already-relegated Leicester last week has made their path to the Champions League far more difficult. Manager Nuno Espírito Santo remains hopeful ahead of Forest’s trip to struggling West Ham.
“We’ll give it everything,” he promised. “We won’t give up until the end.”
City look to finish strong
Manchester City’s hopes of a historic fifth straight title are over, but they remain well-placed to secure a top-five finish. Pep Guardiola’s men face Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final this weekend before returning to league action against Bournemouth and Fulham.
“It’s going to the wire,” said Guardiola. “We just need to finish strong.”