The road to Munich's Allianz Arena for the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League final is now officially mapped out. European football's governing body, UEFA, has released the full fixture schedule for the revamped group stage, setting the dates for every crucial match.
This season introduces a radical new format, swapping the traditional group stage for a single 36-team league. The draw, which determines each team's opponents, is set for 29 August in Monaco. The action on the pitch kicks off in earnest on 17-18 September.
The New Format: A League of Its Own
Gone are the days of classic groups. Each team will now play eight matches in the league phase – two against opponents from four different pots. The top eight sides will automatically advance to the knockout round of 16. Teams finishing between 9th and 24th will face a two-legged play-off to secure their place in the last 16.
Key Dates for Your Diary
- League Phase Matchday 1: 17-18 September 2024
- League Phase Matchday 2: 1-2 October 2024
- League Phase Matchday 3: 22-23 October 2024
- League Phase Matchday 4: 5-6 November 2024
- League Phase Matchday 5: 26-27 November 2024
- League Phase Matchday 6: 10-11 December 2024
- League Phase Matchday 7: 21-22 January 2025
- League Phase Matchday 8: 29 January 2025
The knockout stages commence with the play-off round on 11-12 & 18-19 February 2025, culminating in the grand final at the Allianz Arena in Munich on 31 May 2025.
British Hopes and Ambitions
The home nations will be well represented. Defending English Premier League champions Manchester City will be among the favourites to lift the trophy once again. Arsenal will be looking to make a deeper impact after their return to the competition last season.
From Scotland, Celtic will carry the nation's hopes as they enter at the league phase. The new format offers a fresh challenge and opportunity for all British clubs to test themselves against a wider variety of European opposition.
Fans can now mark their calendars and anticipate another thrilling chapter in Europe's elite club competition, with every match promising high stakes from the very first whistle.
