SEVILLA FC REACH EIGHTH PLACE ON THE UEFA RANKING

Sevilla FC are one of the big clubs in Europe, according to both their trophy cabinet and also the statistics. To speak about good or bad fortune in a continental draw, means not noticing that the composition of the pots is not a matter of chance. Clubs are ordered by pots by a ranking that reflects their European achievements over the last five seasons. And, of course, Sevilla FC cannot afford to not be at the top of that table.

By reaching the UEFA Europa League final on Sunday evening with a 2-1 win over Manchester United, Sevilla FC are now eighth in the UEFA Ranking. By winning the one-off tie against the English side, they were given three points, as opposed to the two normally awarded for a win when two legs can be played, and were given a bonus point for reaching the final. The Nervionenses have now gone from 96.000 points to 100.000, which will allow that number to keep rising.

The win over United brought the club three points, as well as a bonus point for reaching the final

In fact, the win has moved them from tenth to eighth, overtaking current European champions Liverpool (10th, 99.000 points) and also beyond Manchester United, who also have 100.000 points. Sevilla FC will therefore be in at least Pot 2 for next season's Champions League Group Stage draw and will be in Pot 1 if they win the Europa League. Winning the final will also earn the Nervionenses two points, unless they win on penalties, which only brings one point.

Over the last five seasons, the Blanquirrojos have only been bettered by Real Madrid, FC Bayern, FC Barcelona, Atlético de Madrid, Juventus, Manchester City and PSG, in that order. The 24.000 points earned by Julen Lopetegui's side this season have also only been beaten by FC Bayern, PSG, Manchester City and FC Barcelona. Only Inter and Olympique Lyonnais, if they reach their finals, could overhaul Sevilla FC this season.