The Champions League league phase draw has been concluded, setting up a series of high-profile encounters as six English teams learned their opponents in Europe’s premier competition.
Liverpool face a challenging group, with Trent Alexander-Arnold set for an emotional return to Anfield in Real Madrid colours. The Reds will also travel to Inter Milan and host Atletico Madrid, promising a tough route to qualification.
Chelsea, returning to the Champions League, were handed a headline clash against Barcelona in what is expected to be one of the tournament’s most anticipated fixtures.
Defending Premier League champions Manchester City will once again face Real Madrid, reigniting a rivalry that has produced thrilling encounters in recent years. Kevin De Bruyne, now at Napoli, is also set for a dramatic return to the Etihad Stadium.
Arsenal were drawn against German giants Bayern Munich and will travel to the San Siro to face last season’s beaten finalists, Inter Milan.
Tottenham Hotspur, fresh from winning last season’s Europa League, face a difficult test against holders Paris Saint-Germain in a rematch of their recent Super Cup defeat, alongside a trip to Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt.
Newcastle United, however, face arguably the toughest path, with a demanding schedule that includes matches against Barcelona, PSG, Benfica, Bayer Leverkusen, PSV Eindhoven, Marseille and Athletic Bilbao.
The league phase promises a thrilling spectacle, with several heavyweights set to clash early in the competition as English clubs look to make their mark on Europe once again.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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