The UEFA Champions League has introduced significant changes for the 2024/25 season, marking a shift in its structure and competition dynamics. Real Madrid concluded the previous format on a high note, securing their record-extending 15th title by defeating Borussia Dortmund 2-0. The tournament has transitioned from the familiar group stage to a ‘league phase’ system, which expands the number of participating teams from 32 to 36. UEFA believes the changes will enhance the excitement of the competition, as bigger clubs will face each other more frequently.
The revamped format sees all 36 teams placed into a single league table rather than being divided into groups. Each team will play eight matches against different opponents (four at home, four away), with these matchups determined through a draw. The top eight teams from the league phase will automatically progress to the Round of 16, while teams placed ninth to 24th will enter a playoff round to secure the remaining knockout spots. This ensures a competitive edge throughout the tournament, with only the bottom 12 teams being eliminated outright.
The increase in participating teams was achieved by awarding additional spots to nations with the highest UEFA co-efficient rankings, with Germany and Italy benefiting this year. The new system, often referred to as the ‘Swiss model,’ allows for a more diverse and competitive match schedule. Teams are drawn against a mix of opponents based on seeding, offering fans the prospect of marquee matchups earlier in the competition while maintaining a balanced challenge for all clubs.
Another significant change is the elimination of the safety net for teams that finish poorly. Previously, third-place teams in the group stage could drop into the Europa League, but under the new system, the bottom 12 teams in the league phase are eliminated from all European competitions. This raises the stakes in every match, as clubs must perform consistently to avoid an early exit.
Despite the alterations in the early stages, the knockout phase remains largely unchanged. The top eight teams and the playoff winners will compete in two-legged ties starting from the Round of 16, culminating in the final, which will take place on May 31, 2025, at Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena. These changes aim to balance the competition’s excitement and integrity, ensuring high-stakes action throughout the season.
