Alan Shearer names the 5 Premier League clubs that will get Champions League football

With just 34 days remaining in the Premier League season, the race for Champions League qualification has become a gripping five-team tussle for three precious spots.

While Liverpool and Arsenal have virtually secured their places, Newcastle United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Nottingham Forest, and Aston Villa find themselves separated by just two points in a high-stakes showdown that promises drama until the final whistle.

Alan Shearer and Ashley Williams dissected the run-in during their Match of the Day 2 analysis, both concluding that Newcastle (59 points), Manchester City (58), and Aston Villa (57) hold the advantage over Chelsea and Forest (both on 57 points).

Their verdict stems from examining the contrasting fixture lists that could make or break each club’s European dreams.

Newcastle’s path appears most favorable, with home games against Ipswich, Chelsea, and Everton bookending tricky away trips to Brighton and Arsenal.

The Magpies’ +18 goal difference provides an additional buffer in what promises to be a tight finish.

Manchester City’s schedule looks equally promising, featuring three home games including a pivotal clash with Villa, though their Champions League commitments could stretch Pep Guardiola’s squad.

Villa face the toughest immediate test with a trip to the Etihad, but their final three matches against Bournemouth, Spurs, and Manchester United offer potential rewards for Unai Emery’s men.

Chelsea’s route looks most perilous, with consecutive games against Liverpool and Newcastle before a tense final-day encounter at Forest that could become a straight shootout for European football.

The FA Cup semi-finals add another layer of complexity, with Forest, City, and Villa all competing at Wembley while balancing league ambitions.

As Williams noted, “It’s nice if you can pick up a trophy and do both,” but squad depth will be tested to breaking point.

Shearer’s prediction of Newcastle, City, and Villa securing Champions League football reflects both the fixture difficulty and the momentum each club carries. With margins so fine, one slip could prove catastrophic – or one moment of magic could change everything.

As the season reaches its climax, this five-way battle promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats until the final day.