The 2023–24 Champions League group stage draw offered an array of intriguing matchups between some of the most significant clubs in Europe.
Manchester City, the defending champions, are fortunate to be placed in a favorable group, but a number of major clubs will face difficult challenges in the first round.
In light of this, take a look at the top matchups to watch during the group round, beginning with a thrilling matchup between two of the tournament’s heavyweights.
Manchester United vs Bayern Munich – September 20.
Football tickets for the Group A match between Bayern Munich and Manchester United at the Allianz Arena on September 20 will be in high demand with the heat of the match.
Bayern hasn’t won the Champions League since 2020, so now the club is desperate to do it after losing in each of the previous three seasons’ quarterfinals.
It is now up to England striker Harry Kane to score the goals that will drive the team to victory after they went far enough to sign him from Tottenham Hotspur this summer.
Following a string of setbacks in Europe, Man United are also eager to make their imprint in the tournament, but they may have their hands full against Bayern.
Real Madrid vs Napoli – October 3
Braga and Union Berlin are likely to find it difficult to compete with Napoli and Real Madrid in Group C.
The defending Serie A winners, who advanced to the competition’s quarterfinals last year, will be motivated to do so again this year.
On October 3, they play Madrid at home, and it should be an intriguing game because both teams are capable of playing some very deadly football.
In his quest to become one of the top midfielders in the world, Jude Bellingham is a player worth watching for the visiting team.
Newcastle United vs Paris Saint-Germain – October 4
There is often just one “group of death” created by the Champions League draw, and this season’s competition is no exception.
Along with Paris Saint-Germain, Borussia Dortmund, and AC Milan, Newcastle has been placed in the insanely difficult Group F.
In order to stand a chance of making it to the round of 16, their performances at St James’ Park will be important, therefore on October 4, they will want to get off to a quick start against PSG.
But the visitors have added some striking players to their lineup this summer, and they could prove too hot for the Magpies to handle.
Atletico Madrid vs Celtic – October 25.
Celtic has been left to represent their own country since all other Scottish Premiership clubs have already failed in European competitions.
Despite being placed in a difficult group with Feyenoord, Atletico Madrid, and Lazio, they will have faith that they can advance to the next round.
The La Liga team will visit Parkhead on October 25, and it’s sure to be packed. Their home game versus Atletico promises to be a blast.
This match won’t be for the faint of heart because the pantomime villain Diego Simeone will be in the opposing dugout.
Arsenal vs. PSV Eindhoven – December 12
Although Arsenal is unquestionably the favorite to advance from Group B, they would be wise to not underrate the other teams.
Champions of the Europa League in UEFA competitions, Sevilla may be difficult to beat, while Lens proved a challenge in Ligue 1 last season.
PSV Eindhoven will also be hoping for success after securing their spot in this round of the competition with a convincing 7-3 overall win over Rangers.
Given that PSV is likely to be competing for the other qualification position, Arsenal will want to have locked up advancement to the round of 16 before this match on December 12.
