In the vast pantheon of European soccer, the Champions League stands like a colossus. It is the tournament that has been at the forefront of the game since its inception. Its storied history encapsulates a symphony of epic feats and triumphs, from the first ever match to the most recent final.

The Champions League is one of the most prestigious competitions in the world, and entry into it garners admiration and respect from clubs around the globe. The last 21 seasons have seen 32 teams – in eight groups of four – battle for a place in the knockout stage. Those who finish top qualify for the next round, while those in places two through to fourth drop down into either the Europa League or the UEFA Cup.

From this season, the Champions League will have a new structure, with all participating sides playing a total of twenty-four matches in the league phase. Each club will play eight games – four at home and four away – against each of the other thirty-four teams, with the team that finishes top earning a place in the knockout stages. Those in positions nine through to twenty-four will compete in a two-legged play-off for the other six spots in the next round of the knockout stage.

There will be only one draw for the knockout rounds from the round of sixteen onwards, with teams seeded based upon their final league-phase position and no country protection. This means that finishing higher up the table will give a team a more favourable knockout route on paper.