The UEFA Champions League, formerly known as the European Cup, was first held in the 1955–56 season. That year, just 16 teams took part, with Real Madrid defeat

Arsenal’s win over Real Madrid conclusively sealed England’s long-expected fifth guaranteed entry in the Champions League next season. In the new 36-team Champions League format, UEFA awards bonus places to the two nations whose sides collectively perform the best over the three European club competitions this season.

Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Real Madrid in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday night, means the Premier League will have five teams in the competition next season. The huge victory at the Emirates means England have secured one of the extra places for performance by clubs across the three European competitions.