Arsenal will face Real Madrid and Bayern Munich in the league phase of this season’s Champions League, according to the competition’s group-stage draw. Last year’s runners-up were handed a tough schedule against two of Europe’s most successful clubs in the new league-phase format.
The fixture list also pits Manchester City and Aston Villa against Paris Saint-Germain as part of the expanded competition structure. The league phase replaces the traditional group stage this season, with all 36 teams playing eight matches against different opponents.
KEY FACTS
- Arsenal will play Real Madrid and Bayern Munich in the Champions League league phase
- Manchester City and Aston Villa were drawn against Paris Saint-Germain
- The matches are part of the new league-phase format replacing traditional groups
- The draw involved 36 teams who will each play eight different opponents
What does the new format mean?
The 2024-25 Champions League introduces a significant format change, with the conventional group stage replaced by a single league phase. All participating teams will play eight matches – four home and four away – against eight different opponents of varying seeding levels. The top eight teams advance directly to the round of 16, while those finishing 9th through 24th enter a playoff round.
How tough is Arsenal’s draw?
Arsenal’s matches against 14-time winners Real Madrid and six-time champions Bayern Munich represent two of the most challenging possible fixtures in European football. Both clubs have extensive Champions League pedigree and have eliminated English teams in recent seasons. The matches will test Mikel Arteta’s side against elite continental competition as they seek to improve on last season’s runner-up finish.
WHAT WE KNOW — AND WHAT WE DON’T
Verified by the source:
- Arsenal’s opponents include Real Madrid and Bayern Munich
- Manchester City and Aston Villa will face Paris Saint-Germain
- The draw sets the league phase of the new Champions League format
Still unconfirmed:
- Exact dates for the fixtures
- Other opponents in the eight-match schedule
- Broadcast arrangements and kickoff times
WHY IT MATTERS
The Champions League draw sets the stage for Europe’s premier club competition, offering high-profile matchups that captivate global audiences. The new format aims to increase competitive balance while maintaining the tournament’s prestige. For English clubs, these early fixtures against continental powerhouses will reveal their European credentials this season.
WHAT TO WATCH
Fixture dates and broadcast schedules will be announced in coming weeks, with the Champions League league phase beginning in September. The performances of English clubs against elite European opposition will be an early indicator of their continental prospects this season.