Tottenham Hotspur dealt major blow in Champions League race as Serie A and Bundesliga sides prevail

Tottenham Hotspur’s hopes of securing a Champions League spot were dealt a crushing blow by English clubs in midweek.

Manchester City and Liverpool were the only Premier League sides to earn wins in European competition. Brighton were humiliated 4-0 by Roma, Freiburg edged out West Ham United 1-0 while Aston Villa were held 0-0 by Ajax.

More failures in Europe could lead to Spurs missing out on a Champions League berth. Tournament changes from next season may open up a fifth spot for English clubs.

UEFA are revamping their No.1 competition, ending traditional group stages and ensuring each team play at least eight fixtures. The new “Swiss” model will feature 36 clubs for the first time in history - opening the door for another Premier League outfit.

But only if England finishes in the top two of UEFA’s new coefficient table for awarding the additional Champions League spots. Each club - regardless of what competition they are playing in - has been earning two points for a win and one for a draw throughout the 2023-24 campaign.

As it stands, England (14.625) currently trail Italy (16.571) and Germany (15.500) in the rankings. An unprecedented situation has led to Spurs needing to root on domestic rivals - including West Ham and Arsenal - for the remainder of their European campaigns.

Tottenham currently occupy fifth spot in the Premier League as they aim to return to the continent’s top table under Ange Postecoglou. Surprise packages Aston Villa sit five points in front but have played a game more.