Potential Champions League Last-16 Opponents for Arsenal, Liverpool, Spurs, Chelsea and Man City
The League Phase of the 2025–26 Champions League has concluded, and all six Premier League representatives have at least secured a place in the next stage of the competition.
Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City, Tottenham and Chelsea have all progressed directly to the Round of 16, underlining England’s dominance in Europe this season. Newcastle United, however, must negotiate one more hurdle if they are to join their compatriots in the last 16.
Although the play-off fixtures are yet to be completed, the potential opponents for the English clubs are beginning to take shape, with several challenging draws looming.
Possible Opponents for England’s Top Five
The five Premier League sides already through to the Round of 16 now have a clearer picture of their possible next opponents. Liverpool and Tottenham confirmed their qualification on the final matchday and share the same pool of potential rivals.
Despite mounting pressure in the Premier League, Arne Slot and Thomas Frank will back their teams against Atletico Madrid, Juventus, Club Brugge or Galatasaray.
Arsenal, meanwhile, topped the League Phase with ease. Mikel Arteta’s side could be drawn against Borussia Dortmund, Olympiacos, Atalanta or Bayer Leverkusen.
Manchester City, who narrowly avoided the play-offs with a late victory, face four possible opponents. Real Madrid and Inter Milan represent the toughest challenges, while Bodo/Glimt and Benfica complete their shortlist.
Chelsea’s potential opponents will depend on the outcome of the play-off round, with Newcastle, Monaco, Qarabag or reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain all in the mix.
Newcastle’s Play-Off Challenge
Newcastle are the only English side that failed to finish in the top eight, meaning they must go through the play-offs to reach the Round of 16. The Magpies ended the League Phase in 12th place, despite several impressive performances.
Because the play-off round is seeded, Eddie Howe’s team will face either AS Monaco or Qarabag over two legs. Newcastle will discover their opponents at the draw scheduled for Friday, January 30, at UEFA’s headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland.