Chelsea and Arsenal facing potential play-off for Champions League spot

Chelsea and Arsenal could be forced to go head-to-head for the final automatic Champions League place if they finish the season with identical records.

The Premier League had admitted there is a possibility that the two London clubs could face a play-off if results go a certain way on the final day of the season.

Chelsea go into the final round of matches, two points and one goal ahead of Arsenal in terms of goal difference but there is a scenario which would see them end the campaign with identical records.


Should Arsenal beat Newcastle 2-1 and Chelsea draw 0-0 at home to Everton the clubs would finish joint third, paving the way for a play-off for the automatic Champions League qualification spot.

“If at the end of the season either the League champions or the clubs to be relegated or the question of qualification for other competitions cannot be determined because two or more clubs are equal on points, goal difference and goals scored, the clubs concerned shall play off one or more deciding league matches on neutral grounds, the format, timing and venue of which shall be determined by the board,” Premier League rule C.14 states.

Although Chelsea defeated Arsenal in both their meetings this season, the Premier League does not recognise head-to-head records and as a result a play-off would be needed.

That would provide the Premier League with a major headache as UEFA requires qualifying clubs to submit official entry documents no later than June 3, but Chelsea have an end-of-season tour to the USA, while England are due to face the Republic of Ireland and Brazil.