Champions League Quarter-Finals Spark Debate on Competition's Structure

Predictability of top teams advancing and financial dynamics underscore concerns over competitive balance.

The Champions League quarter-finalists for the 2023-24 season have been confirmed, featuring Arsenal, Manchester City, Paris-Saint Germain, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, and Borussia Dortmund.
The predictability of the quarter-finalists highlights a lack of surprise and excitement in the competition's earlier rounds, with big teams consistently emerging on top.
UEFA's upcoming 'Swiss Model' for the Champions League and new financial regulations are unlikely to change the dominance of Europe's wealthiest clubs.
Premier League clubs are closely monitoring UEFA coefficient rankings to secure an extra Champions League spot, with outcomes of specific matches affecting their chances.
The Champions League's current structure and financial dynamics are criticized for favoring big clubs, drawing parallels to a de facto European Super League.