How Liverpool could help Manchester United this season

Liverpool could potentially do Manchester United a huge favor heading into the end of the season if their current form extends into closing days of the 2023/24 campaign.

Following their recent victory in European competition, the Merseyside club may have inadvertently bolstered the hopes of their Premier League rivals, Manchester United, in their quest for Champions League qualification next season.

Manchester United’s disappointing performance in the current Champions League campaign saw them eliminated early on, finishing at the bottom of their group.

With only 11 league games remaining, United face a significant challenge to secure a top-four finish, currently trailing by 11 points.

However, upcoming changes to the Champions League format for the 2024/25 season offer a glimmer of hope for United. Two additional spots in the competition will be awarded to European leagues based on their clubs’ performances in UEFA competitions this season.

As it stands, Italy and Germany are set to receive these extra places, with the Premier League ranking third in UEFA coefficient points.

Liverpool’s recent victory in the Europa League, combined with Aston Villa’s draw in the Conference League, contributed to an increase in England’s coefficient ranking, narrowing the gap to Germany.

With six English clubs still competing in European tournaments, the Premier League stands a strong chance of securing the additional Champions League spot, potentially allowing the fifth-placed team to qualify.

Currently, Tottenham occupies fifth place, with a six-point lead over Manchester United, who are hopeful that their pursuit of higher standings may not be in vain.

Erik ten Hag’s side will be closely monitoring the outcomes of European fixtures involving English clubs, hoping for favorable results to enhance their chances of Champions League qualification.