The new Champions League format could lead to a Manchester derby in the group stage of the competition.
Both Manchester clubs secured their places in the 2023/2024 edition of Europe’s elite competition, with United finishing third place in their first season under Erik ten Hag.
Meanwhile, City clinched their third successive Premier League title, which should only give the Reds more motivation to come out fighting for the top spot again in the new campaign.
New Champions League format
In 2024/2025 though, UEFA will be implementing a new format where clubs will be placed into a league table. They will then be drawn against eight opponents, four home and four away (as per Manchester Evening News), and there will be two added group-stage matches scheduled in January.
As England’s top division will have at least four representatives, the organisers will not block teams from being drawn against one domestic rival.
MEN’s report adds: “Such a scenario is not guaranteed, with the draw for group stage fixtures being made from four pots of nine teams each. However, UEFA will allow one game against domestic opponents if there is a deadlock in the process.
“City and United could also face off against one of the other Premier League teams to qualify, with the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea all vying for a place in the 2024/25 competition. Another key change for the 2024/25 edition will come in the knockout stages, with country protection also removed for the knockout play-off rounds and the round of 16.”
