Manchester City, reigning Champions League winners, face potential elimination in the revamped 36-team league phase, as only two games remain to decide their fate.
DETAILS:
The new Champions League format, introduced this season, features a 36-team league phase where every team plays eight games. The top eight teams advance directly to the Round of 16, bypassing a two-legged knockout play-off round.
However, Manchester City’s current position raises concerns. To progress, they must secure critical points in their remaining two matches to either clinch a top-eight spot or finish between ninth and 24th to qualify for the play-off round.
The stakes are high, as clubs finishing outside the top 24 are outright eliminated with no consolation entry into the Europa League.
Liverpool, by contrast, have already guaranteed a top-eight finish with six wins from six matches. Arsenal and Aston Villa also remain strong contenders, while Celtic’s play-off hopes are still alive.
Other Champions League heavyweights, including City, sit precariously in the standings, adding to the drama of this new format.
QUOTES:
A UEFA spokesperson explained the significance of the new structure:
“The revamped Champions League format aims to increase competition and give more teams a chance at the knockout stages. However, the pressure on traditional favorites has never been greater.”
FAN REACTIONS:
Manchester City fans are expressing their concerns across social media:
“It’s shocking we’re in this position. Pep needs to fix this fast!”
“We can’t go from champions to out of the tournament. Come on, City!”
“This new format is exciting but terrifying as a fan!”
“No excuses—City should still qualify. The team needs to step up.”
“It’s nail-biting. We need Rodri back, and we need him now.”
CITATIONS:
This report is based on the information on the Champions League format and standings was sourced from UEFA updates and fan discussions across social media.
KEEP IN MIND:
While Manchester City’s current position is precarious, they still have two games to turn things around. Pep Guardiola’s tactical genius has often shined under pressure, and City’s squad depth provides them the tools to rise to the challenge. However, any slip-up in these final matches could see them eliminated in a stunning upset.
