The 2025/26 UEFA Champions League is already underway. Barcelona knows its rivals for the League Phase, and Barça fans are already starting to dream of revenge. After a quick and exciting draw, Hansi Flick's team will have matches ranging from explosive clashes to encounters filled with personal emotion.
The draw and the "Barça ball"
Barcelona started from Pot 1, thanks to its position as one of the best European teams. The "Barça ball" was the seventh to come out, drawn by former player Zlatan Ibrahimović. Shortly after, Kaká pressed the button that activated UEFA's software and determined the matchups.
The procedure was quick and without surprises. However, Barça ended up in a top-level group, with the European champion and the Club World Cup champion. Fans can expect high-tension matches from the very first matchday.
Barça's rivals and the road to the round of 16
Barcelona was placed in a group with rivals from all pots. In Pot 1 are PSG and Chelsea; in Pot 2, Eintracht and Brugge; in Pot 3, Olympiakos and Slavia; and in Pot 4, Copenhagen and Newcastle.
Without a doubt, the most notable matches will be against PSG at Camp Nou and Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Both encounters will test Barça's ability to compete at the highest European level. The rest of the rivals, although theoretically more accessible, also present important challenges that can't be underestimated.
Reunions and emotionally charged clashes
Barça will face clubs that bring back memories and emotions. Eintracht Frankfurt will cross paths again, recalling the 2021/22 Europa League elimination. This match will be a perfect opportunity for revenge and to show progress.
Meanwhile, Roony Bardghji will experience a special match against Copenhagen, the club where he was developed. These encounters always provide extra motivation and are a reminder of many players' beginnings. The clash against Newcastle stands out, with Bruno Guimarães and Alexander Isak, which will require Barça to be focused and tactical.
Key dates and expectations
The League Phase will be played between September 16, 2025 and January 28, 2026, with eight matchdays strategically distributed. The knockout rounds begin on March 10, and the final will be played on May 30 in Budapest.
This schedule will allow Barcelona to measure its strength and adjust its playing style before the decisive phases. Each match will be a test, not only to earn points but also to build confidence and competitive rhythm.
Barça faces this Champions League with a desire for revenge, motivation, and exciting challenges. Between explosive matches and encounters full of emotion, Hansi Flick's team will try to advance to the round of 16 with determination. They want to make it clear that European revenge begins from the very first matchday.