Liverpool has been handed a challenging start in the new Champions League format, with Real Madrid as one of their eight opponents in the group stage.
The competition now features a 36-team league, replacing the previous setup of four groups of eight, which means many of Europe’s football giants will clash earlier than usual.
From a Premier League perspective, the highlight of the draw is Liverpool being given a home fixture against defending champions Real Madrid.
Arne Slot’s team will also host Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen at Anfield, with away games at RB Leipzig, AC Milan, and Girona on the schedule.
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On the other hand, Manchester City will visit top teams like Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus, and the draw has also set them up with a home match against Inter Milan.
In comparison, Premier League rivals Arsenal and Aston Villa have received more favorable schedules. Mikel Arteta’s Gunners will host PSG and travel to San Siro to face Inter, but they will likely be satisfied with their other six fixtures.
While some Villa supporters may have hoped for more glamorous matchups, the draw gives them a strong chance of advancing to the last 16. They will face Bayern Munich and Juventus at home, with away matches against RB Leipzig, Club Brugge, Young Boys, and Monaco.
