Newcastle United now need results to go their way to finish third in the Premier League.
The Magpies dropped down to fourth in the Premier League table on Tuesday night, after Manchester City beat Bournemouth 4-1 at the Etihad Stadium.
The evening was all about Kevin De Bruyne’s farewell, as Man City paid tribute to their Belgian superstar and announced that he would be immortalised with a statue.
However, the result was also absolutely pivotal in the race for Champions League football.
Man City’s win means they have leapfrogged Newcastle United up to third, and only need a point on the final day of the season to secure their place in Europe’s elite competition. That is because their goal difference is much better than Aston Villa’s.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Pep Guardiola closing in on Champions League qualification
Pep Guardiola’s side are suddenly in an incredibly strong position to qualify for the Champions League.
However, the Manchester City manager is taking nothing for granted ahead of a very difficult final game of a challenging season.
“Now we recover and think of our final in London against Fulham,” he said.
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“Like always, Marco Silva creates a lot of problems for us. It will be so tough to take the point that we need.
“But of course it is really important. To be in the Champions League this season after what happened will be nice.”
How high up Newcastle United can finish in the Premier League
Just a few days ago, Newcastle United had it in their hands to finish second in the Premier League below Liverpool.
However, Newcastle lost to Arsenal on Sunday, with that resulting confirming the Gunners as the Premier League runners-up.
The Magpies are now down to third, but could still jump back ahead of Manchester City on the final day of the season.
For that to happen, Eddie Howe’s side must beat Everton at St James’ Park and hope that Manchester City lose to Fulham.
Alternatively, Newcastle can finish above Man City if Guardiola’s team draw at Craven Cottage and the Magpies beat Everton by more than four goals.
That would see Newcastle eclipse Man City’s goal difference of +26. If the two sides are level on points and goal difference, it will come down to goals scored. Man City currently have 70, while Newcastle are on 68.