Man City European path set as Champions League draw looms

Man City are preparing to discover their pathway as the revamped UEFA Champions League league-phase draw takes place at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco.

Entering the 2026/27 European campaign under manager Enzo Maresca, City aim to navigate an expanded 36-team format.

📅 Event Details

• Date: Thursday, 27 August 2026
• Time: 5:00 PM BST / 6:00 PM CET / 12:00 PM ET
• Format: 36-team single league table, with each team drawn against eight unique opponents.

📺 How to Watch

• Global Stream: Free live broadcast on the official UEFA Website.
• United Kingdom: Live on TNT Sports 1 and the TNT Sports YouTube channel.

Monaco stage set for Champions League, League Phase draw

The automated supercomputer draw in Monaco determines eight opponents for each side, replacing traditional four-team groups. City will play four matches at the Etihad Stadium and four away from home between September and January.

Pot 1 seeding and potential heavyweight clashes

Placed in Pot 1 via UEFA coefficient rankings, City still face two opponents from each seeded pot. That guarantees high-calibre fixtures against European heavyweights such as Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, or Real Madrid.

Understanding the 36-Team League Format and Key Fixture Dates

Fixtures begin on Matchday 1 in September and conclude on January 27. The top eight teams qualify directly for the round of 16, avoiding knockout play-offs.

How Enzo Maresca’s Squad Approaches European Rotation

With eight demanding league-phase ties alongside domestic commitments, squad management will be paramount.

Key figures including Erling Haaland, Elliot Anderson, Kevin De Bruyne, and Phil Foden must have their game time balanced carefully, especially in the early stages of the season.