Bundesliga gain extra Champions League spot

The German Bundesliga is back amongst the top three leagues in Europe and that means that they get an additional fourth place in the UEFA Champions League from the 2012/13 season onwards. As per the latest UEFA coefficient ranking England continue to lead ahead of Spain, but Germany have captured the lucrative third spot from Italy.

"Italy are no longer able to take over third spot this season," the DFL said in a statement. "The new ranking gives Bundesliga teams three starting spots in the group stage and a fourth in the playoff games of the competition."

And Italy will not be able to regain that third spot with whatever happens over the remaining European 2010/11 season in the Champions League and Europa League. The loss for Italy means a massive gain to Germany as it ensures seven instead of six teams in European competitions.

And now the Bundesliga will first target to ensure it's third place amongst European leagues and then they will push to close in on Spain and England. But will take a few European seasons.