Everything you need to know about the new Champions League format

The UEFA Champions League is one of the highlights of any football supporter’s year, giving supporters the chance to see their clubs compete to be the best team in Europe and showcasing some of the world’s best players. With the latest changes to the Champions League, many supporters are keen to understand the new format for the 2024/25 season. Read on to find out more about the changes to the format, as well as the best ways to enjoy the Champions League this season. 

The new Champions League format explained

Starting in the 2024/25 season, the UEFA Champions League will adopt a new format featuring a Swiss model. The change in format was proposed in 2021, and is designed to create a higher level of competition and excitement. It was finally approved in 2022, having now come into effect for the 2024/25 season. 

Instead of the traditional group stage, each of the 36 participating teams will play eight matches against different opponents in what is now known as the league phase. Teams earn points based on their performance, with the top eight automatically advancing to the knockout stage, while those ranked below will enter a playoff for the remaining spots. This will allow more clubs to compete through a more extensive match schedule, giving more supporters the opportunity to see their teams play. 

What are the changes to the new Champions League format?

Whilst the changes to the Champions League format have been in the works for several years, many supporters are still confused about how these changes will play out in the 2024/25 season. The most significant shifts to the format include: 

League phase allocation 

Under the new format, qualification for the Champions League will remain based on a club’s final position in their domestic league and the UEFA association club coefficient ranking. Whilst the 2024/25 format will remain largely the same, there will be four additional slots. 

• Slot 1 will be awarded to the third-ranked club from the fifth-best association.
• Slot 2 will increase the number of qualifying clubs from 4 to 5, with the domestic champions taking the space in four qualifying rounds. 
• Slots 3 and 4 will be given to the associations with the best overall club performance, with each granted a spot for the next-best domestic league club not already qualified. 

Knock-out phase 

In the new Champions League format, the top eight teams will automatically advance to the round of 16, while those finishing 9th to 24th will compete in two-legged playoffs for the remaining spots. Teams ranked 25th or lower will be eliminated without a Europa League option. In the 2024/25 season, the team ranking will determine where they are in the knockout phase. The teams ranked 9th to 16th will be seeded and face clubs ranked 17th to 24th, with return legs at home. The knockout phase will ultimately culminate in a final at a neutral venue. Matches will remain midweek, while the final will take place on a Saturday.

Number of games played 

Perhaps one of the most notable changes is that in this season's format there will be 189 matches played during the league phase. These changes will be a significant step up from the previous group stage format, which was made up of just 96 matches. This increase in the number of matches will allow more teams to take part in the competition, with greater opportunities for clubs from smaller leagues to shine. With an increase in matches, supporters will have more chances to see their favourite team play, adding even more competition as a higher number of clubs compete for the top spot. A bolstered sense of competition should see teams and players performing at their highest level, resulting in fast-paced, exciting matches. 

Are the Europa League and Europa Conference League changing? 

The Europa League and Europa Conference League will also introduce significant changes in the 2024/25 season by transitioning to the league-style format. Similar to the Champions League, each tournament will feature 36 teams in a league-style format. This change will also increase the number of matches, with each team playing eight matches against different opponents. The shift aims to provide more opportunities for clubs to compete at higher levels and engage supporters. 

Experience the Champions League with Arsenal 

Excited to experience the new Champions League format? Arsenal offers an unrivaled experience at Arsenal's stadium, where you can immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of top-tier football. Whether it's the thrill of unforgettable match moments or the camaraderie of being surrounded by fellow supporters, Arsenal's home is a special place to witness the action unfold. Arsenal’s hospitality packages enhance this experience, blending passion, pride, and a deep connection to the sport, offering fans a memorable way to engage with the Champions League and beyond. 

Visit Arsenal’s stadium to see the new Champions League format in action. Stay up to date without upcoming events, or for something extra special contact us to speak with our Premium Sales Team.