Football fans around the world are bracing themselves for the UEFA Champions League league-phase draw, which will take place today (Thursday) at 5pm UK time.

This season marks only the second time the revamped format will be used. Unlike the traditional group stage, all 36 participating teams will now be placed in a single league table, facing eight different opponents across the campaign. The top eight will qualify directly for the Round of 16, while those ranked 9th–24th will go into a playoff round to fight for the remaining spots.

What Awaits the Giants?

Barcelona could face two heavyweights from a daunting list: Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, Inter Milan, Borussia Dortmund, or Bayern Munich.
Arsenal are in line for blockbuster ties against two of PSG, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, Dortmund, or Barcelona.
Chelsea, who return to the competition, might clash with two among Inter, Dortmund, Barcelona, Bayern, PSG, or Real Madrid.

With so many giants packed into the same pot, the new system all but guarantees early glamour fixtures — and potentially brutal challenges for sides hoping for a smooth run.

Opinion: A Format That Brings More Excitement — and More Pressure

UEFA’s new format has been met with mixed reactions, but one thing is certain: drama is guaranteed. Gone are the days of “easy groups” or predictable progressions. Every team, no matter how big, will be tested early on.

For fans, this is thrilling. Imagine Arsenal vs. Barcelona in September, or Chelsea vs. Real Madrid under the lights at Stamford Bridge. The “league phase” ensures high-stakes encounters from the very start, making every matchday feel like a knockout.

But for managers, it’s a nightmare. There’s no breathing space, no room to rest key players, and the risk of slipping into the playoff zone is very real — especially for teams juggling domestic campaigns.

Still, the beauty of the Champions League has always been about pitting the best against the best, and this format delivers that promise in full. As today’s draw unfolds, fans can expect a rollercoaster season ahead — one where every game feels like a final.