The new format replaces the traditional group stage with a single league table comprising all 36 participating teams.
Defending champions Real Madrid, bolstered by the acquisition of French superstar Kylian Mbappe, face a challenging campaign.They will renew their rivalry with last season’s finalists Liverpool in a two-legged tie, with the first match at Anfield.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side also drew 2020 finalists Bayern Munich, setting the stage for a clash of European titans. Further adding to the intrigue, Real Madrid will host AC Milan and travel to Atalanta, a team they recently defeated in the UEFA Super Cup.
Liverpool’s return to the Champions League after a one-season absence sees them drawn against familiar foes AC Milan and tournament debutants Girona.
However, the most anticipated fixture for the Anfield faithful will undoubtedly be the visit of German champions Bayer Leverkusen, managed by former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso.
Manchester City, aiming to defend their title under Pep Guardiola, face a mixed bag of opponents. They will host Italian champions Inter Milan and travel to Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus, presenting significant challenges.
However, their group also includes more manageable opponents in Club Brugge, Sparta Prague, and Champions League newcomers Slovan Bratislava.
The draw also threw up several other intriguing ties. Bayern Munich will face both Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona in a group that promises attacking football.
Arsenal‘s return to the Champions League sees them drawn against Inter Milan and Paris Saint-Germain, offering a stern test for Mikel Arteta’s side.
The new format sees each team play eight matches against eight different opponents, with four home and four away fixtures.
The top eight teams in the 36-team league table will qualify directly for the round of 16. Teams finishing between ninth and 24th will participate in a play-off round to determine the remaining eight teams advancing to the knockout stage.
The bottom 12 teams will be eliminated, marking a departure from the previous format where they would drop into the Europa League.
