Granit Xhaka makes staggering claim about Premier League's Champions League places

Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka reckons there should be six Premier League teams automatically in the Champions League.

For the first time ever, both European finals will be contested by only English clubs.

Liverpool will face Tottenham in the Champions League final in Madrid on June 1, while the Europa League final will see Arsenal up against Chelsea in Baku on May 29.

Arsenal are at Burnley in their final Premier League game on Sunday, aiming to finish fifth in the Premier League to avoid a potential extra qualifier for next season’s Europa League.

But a win over Chelsea in the Europa League final will see the Gunners qualify for next season’s Champions League.

Granit Xhaka is desperate to play in the Champions League
(Image: Getty Images)

And Swiss midfielder Xhaka reckons the Premier League is so strong there should be six qualifiers automatically every season.

Xhaka said: “Four teams in the finals shows everyone what a league the Premier League is. You should have the first six from the Premier League into the Champions League, so strong is the league.

“Of course we want to be in the Champions League through the Premier League, but that is the past and we have to look forward now and we will see in three weeks.”

Arsenal reached their first European final since 2006 with their win over Valencia
(Image: David Price)

Arsenal have reached their first European final since 2006 and last won a Euro trophy in 1994.

“It is a long time and now we are in the final we want the trophy for the club, for the fans and for us players,” said £30million Xhaka.

“History is nice – if you can be in the history of this amazing club it is something to make you proud, but first we have to win.”

Arsenal keeper Petr Cech is set to retire following the Europa League final – meaning his last ever game will be against his former club Chelsea in a fitting end to his career.

Petr Cech will retire after facing former club Chelsea in the Europa League final
(Image: PA)

While the final will be a huge occasion for the 36-year-old keeper, Xhaka said it will be just as special for the rest of his team-mates.

“We want to give him a good send off but not only him, everyone,” added Xhaka. “For a lot of players it is the first time in a final.

“We have a lot of experience in this team and we hope we are ready for the final.”

Arsenal could finish fourth in the Premier League following Sunday’s final games, but it would require a Gunners win, Tottenham losing at home to Everton and an eight-goal swing.