Introduction to the Champions League
The new format of a 36-team league with eight games will continue this year. The most exciting news is the change in start times. The final will take place at 6:00 p.m. CET instead of 9:00 p.m., a premiere in the modern history of the competition. UEFA hopes that this move will make the final more family-friendly, improve local transport options for traveling supporters, and attract more viewers in key markets around the world.
Group Stage
The group stage creates a fascinating story by setting new distance records, as the largest tournament in Europe continues to grow into the most widespread corners of the continent. This season, the group phase will feature the easternmost team (Kazakt Team Kairat) and the North European team (Bodo/Glimt). It is also the first time in 20 years that a Ukrainian team has not qualified for the group phase. There are debuts for the Cypriot Pafos and the Belgian team Union Saint-Gilloise, and a record number of teams from one nation (England).
Exciting Matches to Look Forward to
The newly named and formatted league stage features some exciting games. Bayern Munich will face a rematch of the 2012 final in the opening week. Newcastle United and their new signing will face a tough challenge against Barcelona. Other notable matches include Paris Saint-Germain against Barcelona, Liverpool against Real Madrid, Arsenal against Bayern Munich, and Manchester City against Real Madrid.
German Teams’ Chances
From the perspective of the Bundesliga, all eyes will be on Bayern Munich. They have three tricky games against Chelsea, Arsenal, and defending champion Paris Saint-Germain, but otherwise, they should feel confident about qualifying for the round of 16. Borussia Dortmund and Eintracht Frankfurt may have a tougher time, but Frankfurt has recently had a big story in European competition after winning the Europa League. Borussia Dortmund remains unpredictable, and it is unclear what can be expected from Bayer Leverkusen after changing coaches.
Key Dates
The group stage begins on September 16 and lasts until January 28. The knockouts begin in mid-February and run every month with two games until the final on May 30 in Budapest. This is the first time a European Cup/Champions League final will take place in Hungary. The 2026 World Cup will begin just 12 days after the final, raising questions about load management. The final of the Europa League is scheduled for May 20, 2026, in Istanbul, and the final of the women’s Champions League will be in Oslo on the last weekend of May 2026.
