Champions League Kicks Off with New Format and High Stakes

The revamped competition features more teams, more games, and a new league structure, ushering in a transformative era for European football.

The Champions League now includes 36 teams, each playing eight games against different opponents, replacing the traditional group stage format.
Top eight teams in the standings by January will advance directly to the round of 16, while teams ranked 9th to 24th will enter a knockout playoff round.
UEFA has increased the prize money fund to at least €2.5 billion, with the title winner expected to earn over €160 million.
The new format is a response to demands from Europe's biggest clubs and the threat of a breakaway Super League.
Manchester City faces a significant legal battle over alleged financial rule breaches, coinciding with the start of the new Champions League season.