The 2024/25 Champions League group stage draw, held on Thursday, has generated immense excitement with its revamped format and intriguing matchups. The new format abandons the traditional group stage, replacing it with a single league table encompassing all 36 participating teams.
Defending champions Real Madrid, further strengthened by the arrival of French superstar Kylian Mbappe, face a formidable challenge. They will rekindle their rivalry with last season’s finalists, Liverpool, in a two-legged tie, starting with a visit to Anfield. Carlo Ancelotti’s side also drew 2020 finalists Bayern Munich, setting the stage for a clash of European giants. Adding to the complexity, Real Madrid will host AC Milan and travel to Atalanta, a team they recently overcame in the UEFA Super Cup.
Liverpool’s return to the Champions League after a year’s absence finds them drawn against familiar opponents AC Milan and tournament newcomers Girona. However, the match most anticipated by Anfield supporters will undoubtedly be the visit of German champions Bayer Leverkusen, led 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 unveiled several other intriguing ties. Bayern Munich will face both Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona in a group that promises an offensive spectacle. Arsenal’s return to the Champions League sees them drawn against Inter Milan and Paris Saint-Germain, posing a stern test for Mikel Arteta’s team.
Under the new format, each team plays eight matches against eight different opponents, with four home and four away fixtures. The top eight teams in the 36-team league table will automatically qualify 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, a departure from the previous format where they would drop into the Europa League. The new format promises an exciting and unpredictable season with both established powerhouses and new challengers vying for glory.
