With the revamped version of the competition expected to feature 36 teams and an increased number of matches from 125 to 189 matches, you could describe it as a new wine in an old bottle.
As explained in our well-detailed blog article, each team will play against eight different opponents in the opening round, four at home and the other four away from home, in a total of 8 games.
While the top eight sides will automatically qualify for the next round, the teams finishing in 9th place to 24th will go head-to-head in a two-legged play-off to secure a place in the last 16.
The Serie A and Bundesliga were rewarded with an extra spot in next season’s Champions League based on their performances in Europe.
Unless otherwise stated, the top five teams from both leagues will be rewarded with an automatic spot in the UEFA Champions League going forward.
Bologna, who finished in fifth place in Serie A, benefited from the new directive, while UCL finalists Dortmund picked up the final spot in Germany’s top flight.
While Bologna can be considered inexperienced on European soil, last season’s finalists, Dortmund, are no strangers to the competition. Together, both sides will compete with 34 others for European club bragging rights.
Defending champions Real Madrid walked away with a record 15th UCL title last season and will be looking to do the unthinkable again by picking up a 16th title.
Will the new format unsettle the Whites and prevent them from retaining the UEFA Champions League title? Or will the Mbappe-included side pick up another UCL title and retain the crown as the Kings of Europe?
While you are eagerly awaiting the draws, join us as we try to answer the most nagging questions about the tournament in our UEFA Champions League preview.
