The road to Bilbao has been set, and it promises fireworks for England's Women's Super League contenders. The draw for the 2023/24 UEFA Women's Champions League group stage has delivered a mix of glamour ties and stern tests for Chelsea, Arsenal, and debutants Manchester United.
Chelsea's Quest for Glory: A Group of Heavyweights
Emma Hayes' Chelsea, last season's semi-finalists, were handed a challenging path in Group D. The Blues will face a formidable Spanish opponent in Real Madrid, Swedish champions BK Häcken, and a tricky playoff winner, either Paris FC or Wolfsburg. This group ensures a high-stakes battle from the opening whistle.
Arsenal's Monumental Task Against European Royalty
For Jonas Eidevall's Arsenal, the draw was less kind. The Gunners were pitted in a true Group of Death, landing in Group C alongside the most successful team in the competition's history: Olympique Lyonnais. The French giants, with eight titles to their name, represent the ultimate benchmark. They will also face Italian side Juventus and Swedish club BK Häcken, making every match a crucial fight for progression.
Historic Debut for Manchester United
Marking a historic moment for the club, Manchester United will make their first-ever appearance in the Champions League group stage. They were drawn into Group A with French powerhouses Paris Saint-Germain, providing a blockbuster fixture. They will also meet Danish side Brøndby IF and Albanian champions Vllaznia, offering a realistic chance to advance in their maiden voyage.
The Full Group Stage Draw
- Group A: Chelsea, Real Madrid, BK Häcken, Paris FC/Wolfsburg
- Group B: Arsenal, Lyon, Juventus, BK Häcken
- Group C: Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, Brøndby IF, Vllaznia
The group stage is scheduled to kick off in November, with the finalists set to battle for the trophy at San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao next May. For the British clubs, the quest for European glory has just become very real.
