Sunday’s final day of the season is dedicated to the battle for survival in the Premier League, as Everton, Leicester, and Leeds brace themselves for a nerve-wracking scrap to avoid relegation. Two of the teams who will join Southampton in the second tier will face severe financial challenges, with experts estimating that one season of Premier League football is worth up to £170 million ($210 million).
Everton cannot afford to be relegated, with the Toffees already seeking outside investment to finish building their new stadium. They are in complete control of their fate, and a victory against Bournemouth will extend their stay in the top flight to 70 years. Meanwhile, Burnley’s poor form – having won only once in ten games – and being without striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, will offer hope to both Leicester and Leeds.
Leicester can survive if fourth-bottom Everton fails to win and they beat West Ham at home, thanks to their superior goal difference. Seven years ago, Leicester celebrated the most unlikely of title triumphs- a glorious era that saw them finish fifth in back-to-back seasons and win the FA Cup for the first time two years ago under Brendan Rodgers. This season, however, has been a nightmare, having bemoaned a lack of investment that led to Rodgers’ sacking in April. Interim manager Dean Smith has been unable to turn the situation around, with only one win in his seven games in charge.
Second-bottom Leeds, on the other hand, needs a miracle to avoid the end of their three-season stay in the top flight. Only a win over Tottenham at Elland Road will suffice, and only if Everton loses and Leicester fails to win. If Everton succeeds, Leeds will have to beat Tottenham by three goals to surpass them on goal difference.
Tottenham’s result could impact the race for the Europa Conference League for Aston Villa and Brentford. Villa is in pole position and will return to European football for the first time in 13 years if they beat Brighton. Tottenham can overtake Villa if they have a better result. Meanwhile, Brentford could qualify for Europe for the first time in their history with a surprise win over champions Manchester City in West London if neither side wins.
In conclusion, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Newcastle are already confirmed to join champions Manchester City in the Champions League next season, while Liverpool and Brighton will qualify for the Europa League. By Sunday evening, Everton, Leicester, and Leeds’ fate will be determined, with two of the teams set to experience the financial consequences of relegation.
