The wait is finally over! After Thursday’s big Champions League league-phase draw, UEFA has now revealed the full schedule for all eight rounds – and let me tell you, it’s going to be absolute madness! This new format already feels like chaos, but these fixtures? Pure fireworks from start to finish.

Arsenal start their European journey with a trip to the Basque Country to face Athletic Club. It’s not the toughest opener, but there’s zero room for mistakes. After that, the Emirates lights up with two big nights against Olympiacos and Atlético Madrid. But just when Arsenal fans start to feel comfortable, the storm arrives – Bayern Munich and Inter Milan back-to-back. Those games will be the real test of whether the Gunners can dream big or not. Luckily, the league phase ends with what looks like a kinder fixture against Kairat Almaty, but in this competition, nothing is easy.

Now, Chelsea. If you’re a Blues fan, get ready for a wild ride. The campaign begins away to Bayern Munich – talk about a tough welcome! Then things don’t calm down because Stamford Bridge will host Benfica, Ajax, and oh yes, Barcelona. And just when you think it’s over, the last match could be a make-or-break clash against Napoli. If qualification is on the line that night, the Bridge will be absolutely rocking.

For Manchester City, it’s all about one game – Matchday Six at the Bernabéu. Real Madrid vs Manchester City, the heavyweight clash we all crave. City begin their run against Napoli, but every fan already has their eyes on that showdown in Spain. Pep vs Madrid is turning into one of the great Champions League rivalries, and this one could decide everything.

Liverpool? They’re not getting any freebies either. Arne Slot’s first Champions League campaign with the Reds starts against Atlético Madrid – and you know how stubborn Simeone’s team can be. Later on, Inter Milan comes calling on Matchday Six, which could be brutal if qualification is still up in the air. At least they finish at Anfield against Qarabağ, which on paper looks like a gift, but we’ve seen this tournament produce shocks before.

And then there’s Barcelona. No breathers for them either. The very first match is against Newcastle United, and you know St James’ Park is going to be electric. Then comes the big one: Paris Saint-Germain. The reigning champions. Hansi Flick will need all his tactical brilliance because after PSG, Chelsea is waiting too. This isn’t just a group of death – the whole league phase feels like a death trap for everyone.

This is what the Champions League is all about – big names, big clashes, and zero guarantees. Can anyone stop PSG from running it back? Will Real Madrid and Manchester City give us another classic? Can Arsenal and Chelsea prove they belong with the elite? One thing’s for sure – this season is going to be chaos, drama, and pure football magic. Buckle up because the road to glory just got harder than ever!