This image is a derivative of Manchester United, by O.Taillon (CC BY-ND 2.0)

The English Premier League is reaching its business end, with just over five rounds of matches to be played. 

While Liverpool have secured its 19th title in emphatic fashion, the battle for the final UEFA Champions League spots is heating up. 

In mid-January, Manchester United were struggling, sitting eighth on the table and looking like a long-shot to be in top-four calculations. Yet, their current 9-game unbeaten streak has vaulted them into contention- and quite possible saved manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s job.

The Red Devils are presently in a heated battle with Leicester City and Chelsea for the final two Champions League spots, with Wolves still an outside chance to secure its maiden top-tier European appearance.

United now have a chance to come within a point of Leicester, and 2 of Chelsea, when they take on relegation-threatened Aston Villa on Thursday night. 

Following United’s trip to Villa Park, their remaining fixtures are against: Southampton(H), Crystal Palace(A), West Ham(H), and Leicester(A). 

So, just how can Solskjaer’s men qualify for the Champions League next season:

DEFEAT LEICESTER 

The battle for a place in the Champions League could go down to the final day with United set to face Leicester away in their their final match of the season on July 27th. 

A visit to the King Power Stadium is always tricky, however it’s a venue Leicester have won at just once since the league’s resumption, with the 2016 champions losing form at a critical time of the season.

The Foxes have just two wins from their last ten matches, while their young star James Maddison has struggled badly down the stretch, with the 23-year old England international failing to produce a single goal or assist in his last 11 outings.

United on the other hand are in pulsating form, with their core of young talent shining at the most important time of the season. 

18-year old sensation Mason Greenwood has slotted 8 goals, Anthony Martial is having his best United campaign yet with 15, while Bruno Fernandes has been a revelation since joining the team from Sporting Lisbon in January. In just nine matches the 25-year old has scored 6 times and registered 5 assists, while his 3.7 shots per game is a number bettered only by Mo Salah in the entire EPL. 

HOPE THAT LEICESTER AND CHELSEA DROP POINTS

Prior to their final fixture against United, Leicester have another tricky fixture with an away assignment against Tottenham Hotspur. 

While Mourinho’s Spurs have not been in top form, they will look to rattle Leicester’s chances of qualifying for the Champions League. 

Meanwhile, Chelsea will have to take on the all-conquering Liverpool away from home on the penultimate matchday. While Liverpool were handed a 4-0 thrashing against Manchester City a few days ago, they will hope to assert their dominance and defeat Chelsea in a bid to possibly reach a historic 100 points for the season. 

Chelsea also have a tricky final fixture against Wolves, who themselves are still in with a chance of European qualification. Dropping points against either of these two teams could result in United overtaking them and qualifying.

QUALIFYING DESPITE FINISHING 5th

Manchester United have a chance to qualify for the Champions League even if they finish fifth on the table.

With fierce rivals Manchester City having been banned from European competitions for two years for financial wrongdoings, United might already have one foot in the Champions League for next season. 

City have appealed the matter and are throwing all their legal power at the problem. A panel is set to review their appeal and make their decision in the next few weeks. However, if their appeal is denied, the team who finishes at 5th would automatically qualify for the Champions League.

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