The UEFA Champions League returns for the 2024-25 season featuring a radical shake-up to its traditional tournament structure, according to official UEFA competition announcements. Defending champions Real Madrid enter the campaign aiming to secure their 16th European Cup title under manager Carlo Ancelotti, facing a newly expanded 36-team league phase that replaces the historic group stage.
UEFA Champions League 2024-25 Season Kicks Off Under New Format
The New 36-Team League Phase Format
According to UEFA regulations, the traditional group stage featuring eight groups of four teams has been scrapped in favor of a single league table encompassing all 36 participating clubs. Every team plays eight matches against eight different opponents—four at home and four away—during this expanded opening phase. This shift increases the total number of matches in the competition from 125 to 189, designed to deliver more high-profile matchups early in the tournament schedule as outlined by European football’s governing body.
Real Madrid Pursue Title Number 16
Real Madrid begin their defense of the European crown following their victory in the 2024 final against Borussia Dortmund at Wembley Stadium. According to club squad registrations, manager Carlo Ancelotti commands a star-studded roster featuring newly arrived French forward Kylian Mbappé alongside veteran mainstays like Dani Carvajal, Luka Modrić, and Jude Bellingham. The Spanish giants enter the league phase as clear favorites among bookmakers and analysts to extend their record tally of European titles.
Contenders and Expanded Competition
Alongside Real Madrid, heavyweights such as Bayern Munich, Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, and Barcelona navigate the demanding eight-match league calendar. According to tournament draw results finalized in Monaco, clubs face a grueling schedule through January 2025 before the knockout phase playoffs determine the final 16 contenders. The top eight teams in the final league table automatically qualify for the Round of 16, while teams finishing ninth through 24th compete in a two-legged knockout round playoff to secure their progression.
