Arsenal and Liverpool could be impacted by new Champions League rule changeThe Champions League is set to undergo a rule change which could affect Liverpool and ArsenalView 2 Images A change has been made to the Champions League league phase draw (Image: Getty)A Champions League rule change next season is set to impact clubs in the tournament, particularly Arsenal and Liverpool if they secure qualification again. Starting with the 2026/27 campaign, the initial league phase draw will not permit any fixture between the same two teams to be repeated across three consecutive seasons. This season, drawn from 27 teams that qualified via league positions, were the winners of last season’s Champions League and Europa League, and the seven teams that progressed out of qualifying. Arsenal and Liverpool could both realistically secure Champions League qualification for next season. The 2023 champions, Manchester City, are currently 11th in the 36-team league phase.

Source: Daily Mirror January 28, 2026 10:08 UTC