European champions Liverpool face a daunting group stage draw for the 2019/20 Champions League, with the prospect of meeting Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, or Napoli from pot two. The draw takes place on Thursday, just months after Liverpool's 2-0 victory over Tottenham in the Madrid final.
As top seeds, Liverpool avoid other pot one teams including Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Juventus, Manchester City, PSG, Zenit, and Chelsea. However, pot two contains several formidable opponents. A reunion with 2018 final conquerors Real Madrid would be tough, while Borussia Dortmund will seek revenge for their 2016 Europa League defeat to Liverpool. Napoli, who faced Liverpool in last season's group stage, and a new-look Atletico Madrid also pose significant threats.
From pot three, Liverpool will hope to avoid Inter Milan, who have strengthened with Romelu Lukaku. Club Brugge would be a kinder draw, offering an Anfield return for former goalkeeper Simon Mignolet. Pot four includes Galatasaray, a difficult away trip, while Lille—depleted by Nicolas Pepe's departure—could be more manageable.
The final will be held at the Ataturk Stadium in Istanbul, scene of Liverpool's famous 2005 triumph, adding extra motivation. Liverpool aim to reach a third consecutive final under Jurgen Klopp.
