The UEFA Champions League has undergone a significant format change for the 2024/25 season, replacing the traditional group stage with a 'league phase' featuring 36 teams instead of 32. Each team will play eight matches against different opponents, with the top eight teams progressing directly to the round-of-16, and the next 16 teams entering a knockout playoff for remaining spots. This season's draw, held in Monaco, paired notable matchups such as Liverpool vs. Real Madrid and Manchester City vs. PSG. UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin defended the new format despite concerns over increased player workloads, citing benefits for all involved. The revamped format aims to deliver more games, more variety in matchups, and increased prize money.