Italy’s UEFA ranking slump ends hopes of extra Champions League spot

Bologna and Fiorentina’s defeats in their latest European matches have left Italy fifth in the UEFA coefficient ranking, making it practically impossible for Serie A to earn an extra Champions League spot for 2026-27.

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Bologna and Fiorentina, the only two Serie A representatives left in European competitions this season, suffered heavy defeats on Thursday, practically ending Italy’s hopes of finishing in the top two of the UEFA coefficient ranking.

Bologna suffered a 3-1 home loss against Aston Villa in the Europa League quarter-finals, while Fiorentina lost 3-0 away at Crystal Palace in the same stage of the Conference League.

Bologna had previously eliminated Roma from the Europa League Round of 16, while Atalanta were the Serie A team making the longest way in the Champions League this season, facing elimination in the Round of 16 against Bayern Munich.

Serie A teams have been particularly disappointing in Europe’s elite competition this term, with Napoli knocked out in the league phase and Inter and Juventus eliminated in the knockout play-off.

England have already secured an extra Champions League spot for next season, and Spain are the favourites for the second and last place available, sitting second in the standings with six teams remaining in European competitions.

UEFA Coefficient ranking: top 6

England 25.569 points (5/9 teams)

Spain 20.906 (6/8)

Germany 20.285 (3/7)

Portugal 19.300 (3/5)

Italy 18.714 (2/7)

France 16.678 (2/7)