Why Are Champions League Games Scheduled for Thursday This Week?

The UEFA Champions League is returning for the 2025/26 season, with 12 teams kicking off their campaigns this Thursday. This marks a notable shift from the traditional Tuesday and Wednesday matchdays, as UEFA has introduced exclusive weeks for each of its competitions to enhance focus on less prominent tournaments. Newcastle and Manchester City will be among the teams competing, playing against Barcelona and Napoli, respectively.

Last updated: 06 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways from the Champions League 2025/26 Season

• This season marks the first Champions League games on a Thursday, a departure from tradition.
• Newcastle and Manchester City will be among the teams playing this week.
• UEFA's decision is aimed at increasing visibility for their other competitions.
• Kick-off times have changed to allow for better viewing options, despite some fan complaints.
• This Thursday’s fixtures are a one-time occurrence for the Champions League this season.

Understanding the Format Change

The Champions League has undergone significant changes as part of a revamp in its format. The transition from a 32-team group stage to a 36-team league phase has expanded the number of matches from 125 to 189. However, the decision to host matches on a Thursday does not stem from this increased volume of games.

Why Thursday Matches?

UEFA has implemented a system where each of their three major competitions—Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League—will have dedicated match weeks. This season, the Champions League has been allocated the week of September 16-18 for its matches. The Europa League’s exclusive match week is on September 24-25, while the Conference League will take place on December 18.

Impact on Fans and Broadcasts

The introduction of a 5.45pm kick-off time was made in 2021 to accommodate viewers and broadcasters. This adjustment allows fans to watch multiple games in one evening, increasing viewer engagement. However, this shift has not come without its challenges.

Challenges for Match-Goers

One of the significant complaints among fans is that the early kick-off time can make it difficult for those commuting home from work to catch the start of the match on TV. Furthermore, supporters attending matches may struggle to arrive on time due to the congested public transport system during peak hours.

What to Expect This Season

Despite the unusual Thursday fixtures this week, the European football calendar will largely follow the traditional pattern for the remainder of the season. Champions League matches will continue to be played on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, while the Europa League and Conference League will maintain their Thursday slots.

Teams to Watch

This season, clubs like Newcastle and Manchester City are set to make their mark on the European stage. Both teams have high expectations and significant fan support, making their matches particularly compelling.

Looking Ahead

As the season progresses, fans will be keen to see how the new format affects the dynamics of European football. The exclusive match weeks could lead to increased interest in the Europa League and Conference League, potentially reshaping the landscape of club competition across Europe.

This season’s Champions League is set to be an exciting one, filled with drama and intense competition. As teams battle for glory, fans are left wondering how the changes will influence their experience and the outcomes of these prestigious matches. Will the new scheduling enhance the appeal of all UEFA competitions, or will it alienate traditional supporters? Only time will tell.

FAQs

Why are Champions League matches being played on a Thursday this season?

This season, UEFA has allocated exclusive match weeks for each of its competitions, with the Champions League taking place on Thursday, September 16-18, to enhance focus on all tournaments.

How many matches will there be in the Champions League this season?

The total number of matches in the Champions League has increased from 125 to 189 due to the new 36-team league format.

What time do Champions League matches start?

Champions League matches typically start at 5.45pm or 8pm BST, allowing for staggered viewing options for fans.

Will there be more Thursday matches in the Champions League this season?

No, this is the only week that Champions League matches will be played on a Thursday this season; subsequent fixtures will return to the traditional Tuesday and Wednesday schedule.

What impact will the early kick-off times have on fans?

The early kick-off times may pose challenges for fans commuting from work, as they risk missing the start of the match both on television and at the stadium.

As the Champions League unfolds, fans and players alike will be keen to embrace the excitement of the season. How will the new format affect the tournament's prestige and viewership? Stay tuned to find out! #ChampionsLeague #UEFA #FootballSeason