Clubs want change after English dominance of Champions League group phase
A number of European clubs have called on Uefa to change the Champions League rules and allow teams from the same country to draw each other in the league phase. It comes amid concerns that the growing power of the Premier League is having a negative impact on teams from other countries. Since the new Champions League format was introduced for the 2024-25 season country protection - which means no teams from the same league can play each other - has remained in place for the eight games that make up the first phase of the competition.
But with three English clubs in Pot 1 for this season's league phase, draw conditions had to be placed upon the non-English clubs in order for the rule to be respected. Teams felt aggrieved that it effectively increased the chances of a harder draw. It meant Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Inter Milan, Paris St-Germain and Real Madrid all had to play two games against Premier League teams.
Some were forced to take Arsenal , Spurs or Newcastle from Pots 2, 3 and 4 to avoid deadlocking the draw. For instance, PSG and Barcelona had to be given a fixture against Newcastle from Pot 4. Without the restriction they could have faced Kairat Almaty or Pafos.
On paper at least, being forced to pay the Magpies is more difficult. Four English teams out in 24 hours - what happened and why? Slot needed a performance - and Liverpool delivered one Is Premier League still on for fifth Champions League spot?
An open draw could lead to Premier League teams having to play each other. The seeding pots would remain but it could also lead to an all-Spanish match, such as Real Madrid v Barcelona, in the league phase. Of the six English teams in the competition this season, five finished in the top eight with Newcastle going through to the knockout play-off round.