The Europa League offers more than just a trophy, with European qualification implications that could transform clubs’ trajectories.
Does the Europa League winner qualify for the Champions League?
Although the Europa League is often viewed as the Champions League’s little sibling, the two tournaments are closely linked by one of UEFA’s biggest rewards for winning its second-tier competition.
Europa League prize on the line
Since 2015, the Europa League winner has earned direct qualification for the Champions League. That initially meant entry into the group stage between 2015 and 2024. It has remained the case following the Champions League’s expansion and format change, which introduced the league phase over the past two seasons.
That will again be true when the next edition gets underway in 2026-27, meaning either Aston Villa or Freiburg, the 2025-26 Europa League finalists, is guaranteed a place in next season’s Champions League league phase.
That would not only bring the enticing prospect of glamour ties against some of Europe’s biggest names, but also the significant financial rewards that come with it.
Aston Villa’s multiple Champions League routes
Villa have also qualified for the Champions League through their Premier League finish. Indeed, Unai Emery’s side has already guaranted a fourth or fifth place finish in the Premier League, so the sixth-best team in England’s top flight will also sneak into the Champions League league phase. That spot will depend on what happens the final day of the Premier League on Sunday, May 24.
Freiburg chasing an upgrade
A Champions League spot would represent a major step up for Freiburg, who finished seventh in the Bundesliga.
Related stories
Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.