The UEFA Champions League 2025–26 season is officially underway after the league-phase draw was made in Nyon.
This season brings an extra twist, as UEFA has replaced the traditional group stage with a new league-style format,
creating more drama and blockbuster fixtures from the very start.
With 36 teams competing and some mouth-watering matchups already lined up, fans are in for a season packed with intensity, rivalries, and surprises.
⚽️ The New Champions League Format Explained
UEFA has revamped the competition to increase excitement and competitiveness. Here’s what you need to know:
36 clubs will compete in a single league table.
Each team will play eight fixtures (four at home, four away).
Clubs face opponents from each of the four seeding pots.
The top 8 teams automatically qualify for the Round of 16.
Teams ranked 9th–24th enter a playoff round for the remaining spots.
The bottom 12 teams are eliminated from European competition.
This means more big matches earlier in the competition and fewer “easy” fixtures.
🔥 Key Draw Highlights
Real Madrid’s Tough Road
The 14-time winners face one of the most difficult schedules, with matches against Manchester City, Liverpool, Juventus,
and away trips to Benfica and Marseille. Their experience will be crucial in navigating such a competitive draw.
Liverpool Face Old Rivals
Liverpool have been paired with Real Madrid yet again, rekindling one of Europe’s greatest modern rivalries.
Jürgen Klopp’s side will also meet Inter Milan, Atlético Madrid, Frankfurt, PSV, and Galatasaray.
Arsenal’s Return to the Spotlight
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal face a huge challenge against Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, Atlético Madrid, and Athletic Club.
A true test of their progress at Europe’s elite level.
Chelsea in a Group of Death
Chelsea will battle Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Napoli, and Benfica in a brutal fixture lineup. Enzo Maresca will need his squad at their best to progress.
Tottenham & Newcastle Get Tough Draws
Spurs face PSG, Dortmund, and Monaco, making for some high-intensity encounters.
Newcastle return to Europe with a clash-heavy schedule against PSG, Barcelona, and Marseille.
What This Means for Premier League Clubs
With Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Tottenham, and Newcastle all competing, the Premier League is strongly represented.
However, the draw suggests that no English team has an easy path.
The new format could make consistency the difference between direct qualification and a tough playoff route.
📅 When Does the Champions League Start?
The league phase kicks off in September 2025.
Fixtures will be played across eight matchdays, concluding in January 2026.
Knockout rounds begin in February 2026, leading up to the final at Munich’s Allianz Arena in May 2026.
🏆 Conclusion
The 2025–26 UEFA Champions League is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory.
With its new league-phase format and heavyweight clashes from day one, fans can expect thrilling football, high drama, and potentially shocking eliminations.
The big question remains: Can Manchester City defend their crown, or will Real Madrid, Bayern, PSG, or one of the Premier League challengers rise to the top?
Stay tuned for live updates, match previews, and expert analysis throughout the season.