Champions League Draw Overview
The draw for the 2026-27 Champions League is happening today in Monaco. This event will determine the fate of 36 teams entering the league phase. Each team will play eight matches to qualify for the knockout stage. Paris Saint-Germain, current champions, aim to secure their third consecutive title, a rare feat achieved by Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Ajax.
Broadcast Details
- Start time: 5pm BST, 12pm ET, 9am PT
- Where to watch: UEFA.com, UEFA.tv (Global), CBS Sports Golazo Network (U.S.)
Team Insights and Rankings
Paris Saint-Germain
PSG is set for a strong campaign, having restructured their lineup. New additions like Ferran Torres and Maghnes Akliouche support a formidable attack featuring Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Ousmane Dembele. With Luis Enrique’s strategy, PSG players are likely to be well-prepared for key matches.
Manchester City
Changes are abound at Manchester City this season. Enzo Maresca replaces Pep Guardiola. The team faces some uncertainty, losing key players Rodri, Bernardo Silva, and John Stones. The next phase could be unpredictable, offering thrills and challenges alike.
Como
Como’s entry into the Champions League is notable. Backed by billionaire support, their fourth-place finish in Serie A is impressive. Key player Nico Paz remains vital, bringing excitement beyond the typical elite clubs.
RB Leipzig
Leipzig underwent a summer of transition, hiring Martin Demichelis as their new coach. Despite selling Yan Diomande to Real Madrid for £125 million, Leipzig’s readiness for the Champions League is in question, making them outsiders for top-tier contention.
Real Betis
Real Betis returns to the Champions League after 21 years. Fans eagerly await their participation, with manager Manuel Pellegrini offering stability. Antony, a former Manchester United player, adds flair to their squad. They hope new signing Troy Parrott strengthens their attacker lineup.
Shakhtar Donetsk
Shakhtar Donetsk adapts to life displaced from Ukraine at Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge. Known for showcasing Brazilian talent, they inspire with their tenacity and ability to cope with challenging situations.
Fenerbahce
Recent investments make Fenerbahce formidable opponents. Vedat Muriqi and Romelu Lukaku lead their front line, while Premier League veterans Mason Greenwood and Nathan Ake succeed in Turkey’s Super Lig.
Sabah
Incredibly, Sabah qualified for the Champions League, the second Azerbaijani team to do so. Since forming in 2017, they’ve achieved significant domestic wins, marking an unbelievable rise in football’s competitive landscape.
Criminal Proceedings Against Infantino
UEFA plans to potentially launch criminal proceedings against FIFA president Gianni Infantino in Switzerland. Concerns involve Infantino’s alleged promotion of a fraudulent off-market price during a sell-off plan for FIFA’s operations. Legal actions are unfolding, casting a spotlight on governance in sports.
UEFA and FIFA’s Ongoing Rivalry
The tension between UEFA and FIFA escalates, resembling a cold war. UEFA’s boycott of FIFA activities highlights the strain from recent conflicts, particularly around commercial partnerships.
Conference League Structure
The Conference League differs from the Champions League format through a six-match fixture setup. This streamlined structure influences team placement in the league phase, with pots decisive for matchups.
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