(DDM) – The 2025/26 UEFA Champions League draw has handed Chelsea and Arsenal challenging fixtures in the newly expanded league phase.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the draw was held in Monaco on August 28, 2025, unveiling thrilling matchups for Europe’s elite clubs.
Chelsea, returning to the competition as FIFA Club World Cup champions, face Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Ajax, Napoli, Atalanta, Benfica, Pafos, and Qarabag.
The Blues will host Barcelona, Benfica, Ajax, and Pafos at Stamford Bridge, while travelling to Bayern, Atalanta, Napoli, and Qarabag.
Manager Enzo Maresca’s side will enter the campaign with confidence, having lifted the UEFA Conference League last season.
Before the draw, Chelsea received a special UEFA award for becoming the first club to win all six men’s competitions.
These include the Champions League, Europa League, Conference League, Super Cup, Cup Winners’ Cup, and Youth League.
It also marks Chelsea’s first appearance under UEFA’s new 36-team league format, replacing the previous group-stage structure.
Arsenal, meanwhile, face Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, Atlético Madrid, Club Brugge, Olympiakos, Slavia Prague, Kairat Almaty, and Athletic Bilbao.
Mikel Arteta’s team will host Bayern, Atlético, Olympiakos, and debutants Kairat at the Emirates Stadium in North London.
Away fixtures include Inter Milan at San Siro, a rematch of last season’s clash, alongside trips to Bruges, Prague, and Bilbao.
Analysts believe both English clubs will face stern tests in their bid for European success.
The tournament promises high drama, star-studded encounters, and potential upsets as the new format kicks off this season.
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