Sunderland will mark their first European campaign since 1973 with a trip to the San Siro after drawing AC Milan in the Europa League league phase, according to reports. The Black Cats secured their continental spot after finishing seventh in the Premier League last season.
Sunderland and Bournemouth Face Italian Giants
The return to European competition for Sunderland brings a high-profile matchup against the seven-time European champions, AC Milan. According to reports, the Black Cats are joined in drawing the Italian powerhouse by fellow Premier League side Bournemouth. Unlike Sunderland’s trip abroad, the Cherries will host their fixture against Milan on home soil. Bournemouth booked their ticket to European football for the first time and will also face Real Sociedad during their eight league-phase games.
“Sunderland will mark their first European campaign since 1973 with a trip to the San Siro after drawing AC Milan in the Europa League.”
Crystal Palace and Celtic Navigate Tough Paths
Crystal Palace face arguably the toughest draw among the three Premier League clubs following their qualification, according to reports. Pierre Sage’s side enters the Europa League after being demoted from the competition last July due to breaches of multi-club ownership rules, following their triumph as last season’s Conference League winners. Palace’s league phase features fixtures against Lyon, Real Sociedad, and Besiktas. Meanwhile, Scottish Premiership champions Celtic fell into the Europa League after surrendering a four-goal lead against LASK in their Champions League play-off tie. According to reports, Celtic’s schedule includes matches against Marseille, Benfica, and Besiktas.
Brighton and Hearts Target Conference League Success
In the Conference League, Brighton’s draw features matches against AS Monaco and Spanish side Getafe, as reported. Hearts also drew AS Monaco and face an away trip to play Trabzonspor, a side featuring Mohamed Salah. The extensive European calendar culminates in the Europa League final, scheduled for 26 May in Frankfurt, while the Conference League final takes place six days later in Istanbul.
Pro Tip: Tracking the League Phase
With eight distinct matches per team in the newly formatted league phase, squad depth and fixture management will heavily dictate progression through to the knockout rounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Europa League final?
The Europa League final will take place in Frankfurt on 26 May, according to reports.
Who are Sunderland playing in Europe?
According to reports, Sunderland will face AC Milan at the San Siro during their eight league-phase matches.
Why is Crystal Palace in the Europa League?
Crystal Palace qualified as last season’s Conference League winners, but were demoted to the Europa League last July for breaching multi-club ownership rules, as reported.
Where is the Conference League final taking place?
The Conference League final takes place in Istanbul six days after the Europa League final, according to reports.
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