Features

Spotlight on Premier League teams featuring in the Europa League

The anticipation in the hearts of football fans across the globe is palpable as European club competitions once again take center stage.

by
Billy Smith
September 8, 2023

The anticipation in the hearts of football fans across the globe is palpable as European club competitions once again take center stage.

The allure of the Uefa Europa League with its electrifying matches, iconic moments, and the clash of different footballing cultures, is a spectacle that ignites passion in fans worldwide.

This season, the excitement is further amplified by the presence of Champions League aristocrats, Liverpool, Conference League winners, West Ham United and Europa League debutants, Brighton & Hove Albion.

Liverpool, a club steeped in European glory, finds itself in an unusual position this year, competing in the UEFA Europa League after a temporary hiatus from the Champions League.

West Ham United, led by the astute David Moyes, embarks on a third consecutive European campaign, aiming to build on the success of the previous three seasons including the Conference League triumph.

Meanwhile, Brighton & Hove Albion makes history by participating in European competition for the first time, a testament to their growth and determination following a commendable 6th-place finish in the Premier League last season.

This article delves into the journeys of these three clubs as they venture into the unpredictable terrain of European football. It explores their respective histories, aspirations, and the challenges they are poised to face in their quest for continental glory.

LIVERPOOL’S EUROPEAN PEDIGREE!

Liverpool, one of the giants of European football, have become synonymous with the UEFA Champions League. However, this season presents a unique challenge for the Reds as they step into the UEFA Europa League. Their temporary absence from the Champions League, a competition they have won six times, adds an intriguing subplot to their European campaign.

The prospect of Liverpool competing in the Europa League has stirred the curiosity of fans and pundits alike. Jurgen Klopp’s team, renowned for its high-intensity pressing and attacking prowess, has the opportunity to make a significant impact in this competition.

The journey begins from the group stage featuring the likes of LASK, Union Saint-Gilloise and Toulouse. Europa League tickets are already on sale for these games and fans are snapping them up in anticipation of some exciting trips across Europe.

Liverpool’s European pedigree is undeniable. They have clinched the European Cup/Champions League on six occasions, the most recent triumph coming in 2019.

Their fervent fan base, known for creating a fervor like no other, eagerly anticipates memorable European nights at Anfield. The question that lingers is whether they can replicate their continental success in the Europa League and add another prestigious trophy to their illustrious collection.

WEST HAM’S CONTINUOUS ASCENSION TO EUROPEAN FOOTBALL

West Ham United’s recent European exploits have been nothing short of remarkable. Despite a relatively modest Premier League standing in the 2021/22 season, they embarked on a European journey that captured the hearts of their fans and neutrals alike. Under the management of David Moyes, the Hammers defied expectations and reached the final of the UEFA Europa Conference League, ultimately clinching the title.

The triumph in the Conference League marked a significant milestone for West Ham. It secured them a place in the 2023/24 UEFA Europa League, a competition with a more illustrious history and fiercer competition. This represents an opportunity for West Ham to further establish themselves as a force in European football.

Their group stage draw pits them against notable opponents such as Olympiacos, SC Freiburg, and FK TSC Bačka Topola.

Each of these teams brings its unique challenges, and Moyes and his squad will need to navigate through a series of demanding encounters.

SC Freiburg return to the Europa League group stage for the second time in a decade. They came close to a Champions League spot last season but missed it by just 3 points.

They did well in last season’s tournament, winning their group. However, they were defeated by Juventus in the round of 16.

This marks the first encounter between Freiburg and West Ham, so it’s a bit of an unknown territory.

FK TSC Bačka Topola is from the Serbian top flight and finished second last year. It’s their first time in the group stage of a European competition, which is a big achievement for them. While they might not be expected to win many matches, they can still pose a challenge for visiting teams and fans.

There are no past meetings between these teams, making it an intriguing matchup.

Olympiacos are no stranger to European football. They’ve reached the quarter-finals in various competitions before.

The Thrylos are a familiar name in European football, with previous quarter-final appearances in the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup and UEFA Champions League. They are also the 2021/22 Greek Super League champions, known for their passionate and intimidating fans at the Karaiskakis Stadium.

Olympiacos aim to progress beyond the group stage, something they haven’t achieved since the 2020/21 season. Their recent signings give them optimism.

The Hammers have a favorable draw, especially compared to Brighton’s tough group. They have a good chance of progressing further but must manage their squad effectively across all competitions.

With some notable additions to their squad, including Kudus and Ward-Prowse, West Ham is looking strong this season, both in the Premier League and in Europe.

The absence of their fans due to UEFA sanctions adds a layer of complexity, as West Ham aim to replicate their success without the raucous support that fueled their remarkable journey in the Conference League.

BRIGHTON’S HISTORIC EUROPEAN DEBUT:

For Brighton & Hove Albion, the 2023/24 season marks a historic moment in their club’s history. Following an impressive 6th-place finish in the Premier League last season, they have earned the right to participate in a European competition for the first time. The Seagulls’ journey from lower-league football to the Premier League and now to European competition is a testament to their growth and ambition.

Their participation in the UEFA Europa League represents a significant milestone for the club and its loyal fan base. Brighton’s rise through the ranks of English football has been marked by steady progress and a commitment to attractive, possession-based football. Now, they have the chance to showcase their style on a continental stage.

The draw has pitted Brighton against formidable opponents: former Champions League winners Ajax and Marseille, as well as reigning Greek champions AEK Athens. These matchups promise enthralling football and will test Brighton’s mettle against top-quality European opposition.

Brighton’s European debut is not just about results; it’s about the experience and the journey itself. The club’s fans, who have supported them through thick and thin, will savor every moment of this adventure, whether it ends in triumph or not. For Brighton, the Europa League campaign is a testament to their ambition and a reward for their remarkable ascent in English football.

THE ROAD AHEAD

As these three clubs embark on their respective European journey, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of their fans. Liverpool seek to add to their illustrious European history, West Ham aim to build on their recent success, and Brighton & Hove Albion cherish the opportunity to make history.

The beauty of European football lies in its unpredictability, where underdogs can become heroes, and giants can fall. Whether it’s the passion of Anfield, the resilience of the London Stadium, or the relentless cheers at the Amex Stadium, these clubs will leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of European glory. As the matches unfold and the narratives develop, football fans worldwide will be treated to a spectacle that showcases the true essence of the beautiful game.

While West Ham hope for another successful European journey, there are strong contenders to watch out for in this competition. Teams like Roma, Villarreal, and Sporting CP are strong contenders.

However, Liverpool stand out as the favorite with their rich history in European competitions, and they’re determined to make a mark this season after carrying out what looks to be a revamp with Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Alister, Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch all joining this summer.