The UEFA Champions League has undergone significant changes this season, shaking up the traditional tournament structure. Fans and analysts alike are evaluating the new format, which includes more teams, increased match frequency, and revised playoff procedures. While some hail these changes as progressive, others voice concerns over their impact on the essence of competitive football.
With the new format allowing for 36 teams instead of the previous 32, clubs now engage in eight matches rather than six during the group stage. The additional matches have introduced fresh dynamics; yet, opinions vary widely among players and experts. Former CSKA Moscow player Dmitry Kuznetsov spoke to RB Sport, noting, "The Champions League new format causes discomfort because everyone was used to the old system when matches were played over two days. Now, the situation is more chaotic, with eight teams progressing to the knockout stages and the competitive nature diluted."
Critics point to how the burden of more matches could lead to player fatigue, especially as clubs are already stretched thin during busy seasons. Vitaly Dyakov, ex-footballer of Dynamo Moscow, indicated similar sentiments: "The amount of matches is increasing, but players have less time to rest. All this is just for money. Still, it’s exhilarating to see teams like Manchester City and PSG still making their way through the competition." This perspective echoes the frustration felt by many long-time viewers who are attached to the previous group stage format.
The excitement of the tournament’s climax was palpable during the last round of matches, which saw 18 simultaneous games played. This radical shift from the conventional staggered scheduling drew mixed reviews. Dyakov remarked, "18 matches at once is insane. How can you possibly watch them all?" This generated greater engagement from viewers, as fans switched from one game to another, eagerly refreshing the scoreboard for news on their favorite teams.
Despite frustrations about adapting to change, some see the new format as revitalizing. The simultaneous games provided breathtaking moments, and as noted by several commentators, "This was the best last round of the group stage for many years." The intense stakes fueled by the necessity for many teams to win for survival or advancement turned ordinary matches extraordinary.
For less-established clubs, the new format is perceived as lucrative. With more entries, teams like Girona and Brest find easier pathways to Champions League participation, which opened financial doors previously closed to them. "These teams benefit greatly now from the expanded pool," observed several analysts, highlighting the ways this encourages competition at all levels.
Yet, the broader impact of the format change may result in average quality as opposed to elevative competition. The historical trend observed during the European Championship, which expanded from 16 to 24 teams, indicates potential dilution over time. Adjustments made by UEFA are under careful scrutiny as the 2025 season progresses.
While the total number of matches increases, the pulse of the knockout stage is what truly drives football's core excitement. The additional playoff round has the potential to deliver high-profile matchups early, with exhilarating fixtures like Manchester City vs. Bayern Munich set to captivate audiences. Observers are already anticipating such titanic clashes, which could very well shape the tournament narratives.
The juxtaposition of new and old systems can be likened to someone altering their outward appearance to attract attention without changing their intrinsic identity. Despite the external modifications to the Champions League format, the competition’s core essence—intense battles between Europe’s elite teams—remains steadfast. Just as before, the peak of excitement consistently awaits as the knockout stages approach.
With playoffs commencing soon, predictions pour from betting houses, placing Liverpool at the forefront of favorites with odds of 6.00, followed closely by Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Barcelona. Fans eagerly await to see if this year’s adjustments yield the thrilling outcomes hoped for by UEFA and spectators alike.
Time will tell whether the new format leads to anticipated success or if it falters under the weight of its radical changes. Nevertheless, many will tune in, eager to witness the drama and beauty of the beautiful game as the Champions League, old and new, continues its storied legacy.