How can Manchester United still qualify for Europe? Qualification scenarios explained

Manchester United have finished eighth in the Premier League - their lowest top-flight finish since 1989/90.

Erik ten Hag's side ended their league campaign with a 2-0 win at Brighton on Sunday after Wednesday's 3-2 victory over Newcastle at Old Trafford. But their final league position means they face a season without European football for the first time since 2014/15 under Louis van Gaal.

But there is still one alternative route which will see them secure a Europa League spot. Victory over rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Saturday will ensure they qualify for Europe, leaving seventh-placed Newcastle empty-handed.

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The Magpies will currently qualify for the Europa Conference League, however, they will miss out on Europe altogether if Man United win at Wembley. Eddie Howe's side finished the season level on points with United but Newcastle's superior goal difference has seen them finish above Ten Hag's team.

A Europa League place could be crucial for the Red Devils next season with the winners of that competition qualifying for the following season's Champions League. United famously did exactly that in 2017 after beating Ajax 2-0 in Stockholm under Jose Mourinho.

"Of course it’s important but we have two opportunities," Ten Hag said about European qualification. "There is one in the league and one in the FA Cup final and it will have an impact on the budget.

"We know we are still below the levels from the expectations that Manchester United has, so we have to catch up."

On United's lowest-ever Premier League