UEFA Considering Changes to New Champions League Format

UEFA is considering a number of changes to the new Champions League format after its first season, according to Bild.

The UEFA Club Competitions Committee, based on feedback from clubs about the revamped European competition, may decide on May 30 in Munich to implement a set of changes. The matter will then be submitted to the UEFA Executive Committee for discussion.

Reportedly, UEFA is evaluating the possibility of scrapping extra time in the playoff matches, replacing it with penalty shootouts. Additionally, the top eight clubs from the main round could be granted the right to play all second-leg matches at home throughout the playoffs — a privilege currently limited to the round of 16. There is also talk of reinstating the previous rule that prevents clubs from the same country from facing each other before the quarterfinals.

For the first time in history, 36 teams are competing in the main round of the Champions League under the new format. Each team plays eight matches against eight different opponents. The top eight teams in the overall table advance directly to the round of 16. Teams placed 9th to 24th enter an additional playoff round.

Published by Patrick Jane
24.04.2025