Jonne Lindblom, an agent with a FIFA license, has denounced a development that she calls “absolutely ridiculous” that resulted from West Ham’s victory over Freiburg.
Because of the division’s coefficient and West Ham’s outstanding win over its Bundesliga rivals, the Premier League will probably have a fifth representation in the Champions League the following season.
Journalist Miguel Delaney brought that to Lindblom’s attention on Twitter [14 March], to which the designer quickly responded on his own account.
“That’s modern football for you, but it’s absolutely ridiculous that 25% of Premier League clubs will qualify for the Champions League next season,” he remarked.
West Ham United on course for more European football at London Stadium
The extra Champions League spot won’t directly help West Ham, but it might lead to another European spot later in the competition.
As it stands, Liverpool, the EFL Cup winners, would very certainly automatically qualify for the Champions League, therefore placing seventh will probably be sufficient for a Europa Conference League slot.
A club currently in eighth place, Brighton & Hove Albion, may also be eligible for a European position if the Premier League is given the fifth Champions League spot.
In many ways, that is overkill, but at least it gives all the parties something to fight for as the campaign draws to a close.
For instance, 13th-place Bournemouth will realize that a European berth is still possible when they see Brighton seven points ahead of them.
For now, West Ham’s goal will still be to finish above Manchester United in sixth place, but it’s comforting to know there’s a safety net in place in case that goal isn’t met.
