The stage is set for an electrifying campaign in the new-look UEFA Women’s Champions League as the group-stage draw handed England’s representatives — Arsenal, Chelsea, and debutants Manchester United — challenging paths to glory.

For Manchester United, who are making their first-ever appearance in the competition, the journey begins with a baptism of fire. They have been drawn into a group featuring heavyweights Lyon, Wolfsburg, PSG, Juventus, Valarenga, and Atletico Madrid. With no shortage of pedigree among their opponents, United’s dream debut is certain to test their resilience and ambition.

Holders Arsenal, aiming to defend their crown, will welcome Lyon, Real Madrid, and Twente at home while traveling away to face Bayern, Benfica, and Leuven. The Gunners will need to balance confidence with caution as every fixture carries potential pitfalls.

Meanwhile, Chelsea — semi-finalists last season — face another mountain to climb. Drawn against Barcelona, Wolfsburg, Roma, St. Pölten, Paris FC, and Twente, Emma Hayes’ side will need to bring their A-game to progress from a group stacked with quality.

Beyond the English clubs, Barcelona’s clash with Bayern Munich is set to be a blockbuster, while Lyon’s showdown with Wolfsburg promises fireworks between two of Europe’s most decorated sides.

Opinion: A Test of Mettle, Not Just Talent

This year’s Women’s Champions League is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in history — and for English clubs, it feels like the perfect litmus test.

Manchester United may have been thrown into the deep end, but in football, the toughest tests often produce the brightest stories. Whether they rise to the occasion or crumble under pressure, their debut season will be unforgettable.

For Arsenal, defending the title isn’t just about talent, it’s about consistency. Their group is tricky, but if any team has the experience to handle pressure, it’s the reigning champions. Chelsea, on the other hand, have unfinished business in Europe. After falling short in the semi-finals, Hayes’ side must prove that they belong at the very pinnacle of women’s football.

What makes this year particularly special is not just the quality of the football but the sense of growth. The Women’s Champions League has become a true showcase of skill, strategy, and spectacle. Every draw feels like a headline match, every fixture a story waiting to unfold.

The question is — will an English club rise to the top again, or will the giants of Spain, France, and Germany reclaim dominance? Whatever the outcome, fans are in for a season of breathtaking football.