The countdown to another thrilling season of the UEFA Champions League has officially begun. Just months after Paris Saint-Germain stunned Europe by lifting their maiden Champions League trophy, Europe's elite clubs are preparing for another battle for continental supremacy.
The 2026-27 campaign promises even more drama as the competition enters its second season under the revamped league-phase format. With several European giants strengthening their squads during the summer transfer window, fans can expect another fiercely competitive race to the final.
While qualifying rounds are already underway, attention is now turning towards the highly anticipated Champions League 2026-27 league phase draw, which will determine the fixtures for Europe's biggest club competition.
When is the UEFA Champions League 2026-27 league phase draw?
The UEFA Champions League 2026-27 league phase draw will take place on Thursday, August 27, 2026.
Draw Date and Time
- Date: Thursday, August 27, 2026
- Time: 5:00 PM BST
- 12:00 PM ET
- 9:00 AM PT
- 6:00 PM CEST
The ceremony will be held at UEFA's headquarters in Nyon, where all participating clubs will discover their eight league-phase opponents.
As in previous years, the draw is expected to be streamed live on UEFA's official digital platforms, allowing football fans across the globe to follow every moment.
How Does the Champions League League Phase Work?
The Champions League now follows the new 36-team league format, replacing the traditional group stage.
Instead of playing in groups, every club will face eight different opponents, with four matches at home and four away. At the end of the league phase:
- The top eight teams qualify directly for the Round of 16.
- Teams finishing 9th to 24th will compete in a two-legged knockout play-off.
- Clubs finishing 25th to 36th will be eliminated.
The new format has added more blockbuster fixtures, increased competition, and significantly reduced the chances of predictable group-stage outcomes.
Teams Qualified for the UEFA Champions League 2026-27
Several of Europe's biggest clubs have already secured their place in the league phase.
England
- Liverpool
- Arsenal
- Manchester City
- Chelsea
- Manchester United
- Aston Villa
Spain
- Barcelona
- Real Madrid
- Atlético Madrid
- Real Betis
- Villarreal
Germany
- Bayern Munich
- RB Leipzig
- VfB Stuttgart
- Borussia Dortmund
Italy
- Napoli
- Inter Milan
- Roma
- Como
France
- Paris Saint-Germain
- Lens
- Lille
Netherlands
- PSV Eindhoven
- Feyenoord
Portugal
- Sporting CP
- Porto
Other Qualified Clubs
- Galatasaray
- Slavia Prague
- Club Brugge
- Shakhtar Donetsk
The remaining league-phase places will be filled through the ongoing qualifying rounds.
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