Ranking the Best Clubs Missing Out on European Football Next Season
In a surprising turn of events, several of Europe’s most prominent football clubs will be absent from all European competitions in the 2025/26 season. Despite holding high UEFA coefficients and rich continental histories, these teams failed to qualify for the Champions League, Europa League, or Conference League.
Below, we take a closer look at the ten highest-ranked clubs in UEFA’s coefficient standings that won’t be competing in Europe next season — from Djurgården to Manchester United. While they turn their focus solely to domestic campaigns, the absence of European football will be felt both on and off the pitch.
Djurgården
Swedish side Djurgården, despite a solid coefficient of 34.000 earned through recent European campaigns, will not participate in European competitions next season. A disappointing domestic finish cut short their continental ambitions. For a club used to punching above its weight, this is a major setback.
Gent
Belgium’s Gent accumulated a respectable 42.000 points but failed to secure a European spot for 2025/26. Their recent campaigns had boosted their ranking, but inconsistency at home proved costly. The club now faces a rebuilding year without continental distractions.
Sevilla
Sevilla, a serial Europa League winner, shockingly misses out on Europe despite holding 58.000 UEFA points. Known for thriving on the continental stage, this marks a rare low point. Their domestic struggles have left fans and pundits stunned.
Real Sociedad
Real Sociedad’s 65.000 coefficient reflects years of strong European performances. Yet, failure to replicate that form in La Liga has cost them dearly. The Basque club will spend next season regrouping, without the added prestige and revenue of European football.
Lazio
Lazio misses out on European action despite a high 76.000-point ranking. The Rome-based club has been a consistent presence in UEFA tournaments, but underperformance in Serie A has cost them a spot. Their absence will be felt in both the Italian and European scenes.
RB Leipzig
RB Leipzig, with 78.000 UEFA points, has grown into a European force. Yet, their failure to qualify marks a significant regression. With a talented squad and top-tier infrastructure, their absence from UEFA competitions next season is one of the bigger surprises.
AC Milan
AC Milan shares the same coefficient as Leipzig but faces a similar fate. A club with such rich European heritage not making the cut is symbolic of the challenges they’ve faced. The Rossoneri will have to look inward as they plan a domestic resurgence.
Their UEFA coefficient stands at 78.000.
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