The stage is set for Manchester City's title defence. The reigning European champions have discovered their opponents for the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League group stage following the eagerly anticipated draw in Monaco.
Pep Guardiola's treble-winners, aiming to secure their second consecutive crown, now know the challenges that lie ahead on the road to the final in Munich. The draw has pitted the Premier League giants against a mix of familiar foes and fresh competition.
Who Will City Face?
The draw has placed Manchester City in a group that promises exciting, attack-minded football. While the exact composition will be confirmed after the final play-off rounds, the initial seeding ensures a tough but navigable path for the favourites.
Fans can expect thrilling nights at the Etihad Stadium as European football's elite come to town. The fixture list is packed with must-watch matches that will test the squad's depth and quality.
Key Dates for the Diary
Mark your calendars! The group stage campaign kicks off in mid-September, with the final round of matches concluding in early December. The full schedule is as follows:
- Matchday 1: 17/18 September 2024
- Matchday 2: 1/2 October 2024
- Matchday 3: 22/23 October 2024
- Matchday 4: 5/6 November 2024
- Matchday 5: 26/27 November 2024
- Matchday 6: 10/11 December 2024
All eyes will be on the draw for the knockout stages, which is scheduled for 13 December 2024.
The Road to Munich
After navigating the group stage, the quest for European glory continues into the new year. The knockout phase begins with the Round of 16 in February 2025, culminating in the grand final at the Allianz Arena in Munich on 31 May 2025.
With a star-studded squad and a manager obsessed with perfection, Manchester City will be confident of progressing deep into the tournament once again. The draw has set the scene for another captivating chapter in the club's illustrious history.
