Excitement is in the air as the Champions League proper returns next month with a brand new format. The ‘Swiss Model’ is set to make its debut this season, shaking up the traditional eight-groups-of-four setup we have all grown accustomed to in recent years. Tomorrow (Thursday) marks the draw for the revamped Champions League, and here at The Athletic, we are here to guide you through everything you need to know about the draw and the exciting new look for UEFA’s premier club competition.
First Things First: The Swiss Model and More Teams
The new format introduces a ‘league phase’ in place of the standard ‘group phase’, consolidating all participating clubs into one large table following the Swiss system used in chess. The number of teams competing has been bumped up to 36, each playing eight matches in the initial phase, as opposed to six in previous seasons. In this new setup, teams will face a different opponent in every game, resulting in a total of 189 matches within the competition proper, culminating in the final in Munich on May 31 – a significant increase from the previous 125 matches.
UEFA aims to raise the level of competition from the onset, promoting bigger clashes earlier in the tournament by allowing top teams to face off in the league phase rather than keeping them apart until the knockout phase. Additionally, the new format provides more opportunities for teams in lower pots to earn points, with each team competing against a variety of opponents.
Following the league phase, the top eight teams in the table will progress directly to the 16-team knockout round, with the remaining eight spots determined by a two-leg play-off involving teams finishing between ninth and 24th in the league. Seeding will be introduced from the round of 16 onwards, ensuring that top teams avoid each other until the final.
Tonight, the final lineup for the draw will be decided, with four clubs securing their spots through the last set of pre-tournament play-offs.
Changes to the Draw Format
This year’s draw will feature four pots of nine teams each, with all pots seeded by coefficient. The exception to this seeding rule is the Champions League title holders, who will be the first team drawn.
Unlike previous draws where teams were manually allocated groups, this year’s draw will be predominantly automated. Each team will be manually drawn, showcasing their eight opponents and indicating whether they play at home or away (four of each).
Teams will face two opponents from each pot, including two from their own pot, ensuring a diverse mix of matchups. The draw process will continue until all 36 teams have been assigned fixtures, with a focus on equitable distribution.
Potential Matchups and Security Measures
UEFA has implemented stringent rules to prevent clubs from the same nation facing each other in the first phase. The draw software will carefully follow these regulations, aiming to create balanced fixtures without bias.
The draw process, orchestrated by AE Live, involves fail-safes to address software crashes and maintain feasibility throughout the draw. Additional checks are in place to ensure compliance with established rules and fairness in the selection process.
Furthermore, AE Live has taken measures to safeguard against cyber-attacks, guaranteeing the draw’s integrity and security. With Ernst and Young providing additional verification, UEFA strives to uphold transparency and credibility in the draw process.
(Robert Michael/picture alliance via Getty Images)
Highlighted Details and Broadcast Information
Following the draw’s live streaming on UEFA’s website and broadcast partners such as TNT Sports in the UK and Paramount in the US, fans can stay updated on the latest developments. The draw is set to take place at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco, commencing at 5pm BST/12pm ET on Thursday, August 29.
For those eager to plan their travel, fixture dates will be disclosed on Saturday, August 31, in consideration of logistical arrangements for the Europa League and Conference League. The new format promises a more balanced and competitive calendar, with measures in place to ensure fair and evenly distributed matchups.
With numerous innovations and safeguards, UEFA is paving the way for an exciting and dynamic Champions League season.
(Top photo: Rob Newell – CameraSport via Getty Images)
