How Will English Clubs Perform in the Champions League?

The 2025-26 UEFA Champions League is set to feature a record six Premier League clubs, marking a significant moment in the competition's history. For the first time since the 2021-22 season, no Scottish teams will participate in the group stage, following the elimination of Celtic and Rangers in the playoffs. The league phase draw will occur on 28 August 2025, with the first matches kicking off on 16 September. This article explores the potential of each Premier League club and provides insights into their preparations for the tournament.

Last updated: 28 August 2025 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Six Premier League clubs will compete in the 2025-26 Champions League.
• No Scottish teams will be present in the group stage for the first time since 2021-22.
• The league phase draw is scheduled for 28 August 2025.
• Defending champions Paris St-Germain will aim to retain their title.
• Each Premier League club has made significant summer signings to bolster their squads.

The Format of the 2025-26 Champions League

The 2025-26 Champions League will continue with the new format introduced last season, which includes a 36-team league phase instead of the traditional group stage. This alteration aims to increase the number of matches and provide clubs with more opportunities to compete at the highest level. Each team will play eight matches during the league phase, four at home and four away. The top eight teams will qualify directly for the knockout stage, while those finishing from ninth to 24th will enter a playoff round to secure their places.

Premier League Contenders

This season, the Premier League will be represented by Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur. Each club comes with its own story and aspirations for the prestigious title. Here’s a closer look at what each team brings to the competition.

Arsenal: Aiming for Glory

Arsenal enters the tournament with renewed optimism after reaching the semi-finals last season for the first time in 16 years. Under Mikel Arteta, the Gunners showed impressive form, defeating the reigning champions Real Madrid convincingly. With over £150 million spent on key signings like Victor Gyokeres, Eberechi Eze, and Noni Madueke, Arsenal is looking to finally lift the Champions League trophy, a feat that has eluded them thus far.

Uefa club coefficient ranking: 15th

Chelsea: Back in the Mix

After a two-year absence, Chelsea returns to the Champions League, riding high as the Club World Cup and Europa Conference League champions. With new signings such as Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, and Jamie Gittens, Chelsea aims to re-establish itself as a European powerhouse. The club’s rich history in European competitions provides a solid foundation as they embark on this new campaign.

Uefa club coefficient ranking: 14th

Liverpool: Hungry for European Success

Last season's Premier League champions, Liverpool, are eager to reclaim their European crown after a disappointing exit in the last-16 against PSG. Under the guidance of Arne Slot, the Reds have made significant signings, including Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong, which bolster their attacking options. Liverpool's ambition is to secure their eighth European title, and with a strong squad, they remain a formidable contender.

Uefa club coefficient ranking: 5th

Manchester City: Aiming for Back-to-Back Titles

Manchester City, the reigning Champions League champions, faced a challenging season last year, finishing third in the Premier League and exiting the tournament early. However, with Pep Guardiola at the helm, City has added depth to their squad, including new arrivals like Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders, who will play a crucial role in filling the void left by Kevin de Bruyne. The club is focused on progressing further and defending their title.

Uefa club coefficient ranking: 4th

Newcastle United: Building on Last Season's Experience

Newcastle United returns to the Champions League after a 20-year absence, with a promising debut season that included standout performances such as a notable victory over PSG. However, their summer transfer activities have not fully reflected their ambitions, with missed opportunities in securing key striker targets. Despite this, playing at St James' Park remains a daunting prospect for visiting teams, which could play to Newcastle’s advantage.

Uefa club coefficient ranking: 85th

Tottenham Hotspur: New Beginnings

Tottenham Hotspur is back in the Champions League after a forgettable previous season. Having finished as Europa League champions, Spurs will now look to make an impact in Europe’s elite competition. New manager Thomas Frank faces a steep learning curve, but with recent signings like Joao Palhinha and Mohammed Kudus, there are signs of promise. Tottenham’s recent domestic form will be crucial as they prepare for their return to the Champions League.

Uefa club coefficient ranking: 31st

What’s Next for the Clubs?

As the league phase draw approaches, anticipation is building for the upcoming matches. Each Premier League club will be keen to establish a strong start and build momentum early in the tournament. The new format allows teams to face a broader range of opponents, making each match vital for qualification to the knockout stages. The stakes are high, and with the level of talent on display, fans can expect thrilling encounters.

Challenges Ahead

While the Premier League clubs have made significant investments, they face various challenges, including integrating new players, coping with the pressure of high-stakes matches, and managing injuries throughout a demanding schedule. Additionally, the absence of Scottish teams highlights the changing landscape of European football, where the Premier League's dominance continues to grow.

Conclusion

The 2025-26 UEFA Champions League promises to be an exhilarating season, especially for the six Premier League teams vying for glory. With each club bringing unique strengths and strategies, the competition is set to be fierce. As the draw approaches, fans are left wondering how these teams will fare against Europe’s elite. Will any of the Premier League clubs secure the coveted trophy this season? Only time will tell.

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FAQs

When is the draw for the Champions League league phase?

The draw for the Champions League league phase will take place on Thursday, 28 August 2025, at 17:00 BST in Monaco.

How many Premier League teams are competing in the 2025-26 Champions League?

A record six Premier League teams will compete in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League.

Who are the defending champions of the Champions League?

Paris St-Germain are the defending champions of the Champions League, having won the title for the first time last season.

When do the first matches of the league phase begin?

The first matches of the Champions League league phase will begin on 16 September 2025.

Which teams were eliminated from the Champions League playoffs?

Celtic and Rangers were eliminated from the Champions League playoffs, marking the first time no Scottish teams will participate in the group stage since the 2021-22 season.