The Classic Champions League format is changing

Creator: Steffen Prößdorf | Credit: Steffen Prößdorf

Copyright: Steffen Prößdorf

From 2024, 36 clubs take part in the Champions League (CL) and they’ll all be in one huge league table. The ‘Swiss Model’. It’s a flash from the past to the Super League debacle, but there’ll be four new teams competing.

Two to the best performing leagues, one to the third-placed team in the league ranked fifth in the coefficient. One to a league champion not in the top ten.

Not confused? Here are examples of possible new teams.

Not confused? Here are examples of possible new teams.

1. Aston Villa

English teams haven’t played particularly well in the CL, but most will progress in the other competitions. Aston Villa, since their promotion, have shown ambition in transfer windows, signing the likes of Pau Torres with Unai Emery at the helm. ‘Impressive’ is an understatement describing their campaign.

2. Fiorentina

Italian teams have proven to be a difficult outing for the rest of Europe. Fiorentina have flirted with a top-four battle all season, and could claim this spot.

Despite Roma continuously being linked to manager Vincenzo Italiao to replace Jose Mourinho, Fiorentina have continued their good form.

3. Brest

The French have held the fifth coefficient ranking all season, so this could go to them.

Brest have been the surprise package & despite Franck Honorat leaving with predictions for relegation, they keep defying odds.If they can keep consistency, Brest will qualify for the CL for the first time.

4. VfB Stuttgart

The revival from relegations battles to now on the cusp of Champions League football. Despite the departures of first-team players such as Endo and Konstantinos Mavropanos, players have stepped up another level for the historic German side.

Foot 224

https://www.foot224.co/2024/03/16/bundesliga-serhou-guirassy-et-stuttgart-font-le-show-a-hoffenheim/

The fourth place will go to a team not ranked in the top ten. Previously, these teams could only qualify to the CL if they won EXTRA qualifying rounds. More and more fixtures.

There’s a sense of trepidation, What about player welfare?

Those questions will be answered in due time. As long as there’s entertainment, there’ll be less talk about the change, & more about what’s on the pitch.