The Champions League is set to return, with the league phase draw confirmed for August 27 at 5pm BST in Monaco. This marks a significant moment as Paris Saint-Germain aims to defend their title after a thrilling penalty shootout victory against Arsenal in Budapest three months ago.

This season features 36 teams, including Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, Aston Villa, and Liverpool from England. Notably absent is Celtic, the Scottish champions, who suffered a shocking exit in the play-off round against LASK.

Key Teams in Pot One:

• Paris Saint-Germain
• Bayern Munich
• Real Madrid
• Inter Milan
• Barcelona
• Atletico Madrid

The draw will determine each team’s eight league phase matches, with teams facing two opponents from each of the four pots. Half of the matches will be played at home, while the other half will be away.

How the Champions League League Phase Works:

• Top eight teams automatically qualify for the last-16.
• Teams finishing ninth to 24th enter the knockout-phase play-off.
• Teams ranked 25th or lower are eliminated and do not qualify for the Europa League.

Matchday Schedule:

• Matchday 1: September 8-10
• Matchday 2: October 13/14
• Matchday 3: October 20/21
• Matchday 4: November 3/4
• Matchday 5: November 24/25
• Matchday 6: December 8/9
• Matchday 7: January 19/20
• Matchday 8: January 27
• Knockout Phase Play-offs: February 16/17 and 23/24
• Round of 16: March 9/10 and 16/17
• Quarter-finals: April 6/7 and 13/14
• Semi-finals: April 27/28 and May 4/5

Fans can catch all the action live on TNT Sports 1 and HBO Max in the UK, as these broadcasters host the Champions League alongside Prime Video.