The New Europa League Format Explained

The biggest change for the 2025/26 season is the single league phase, which replaces the old eight-group system. This new “Swiss system” format creates a more dynamic and unpredictable competition from the very beginning.

How the League Phase Works

Instead of playing three opponents twice, each of the 36 clubs will play eight different teams during the league phase. Four of these matches will be at home, and four will be away. Teams are drawn from four seeding pots, ensuring a varied and challenging schedule for everyone involved. All teams are then ranked in a single league table based on their results.

Path to the Knockout Rounds

Following the eight matchdays, the path to the final becomes clear. The progression is straightforward:

• Top 8 Teams: These clubs automatically advance directly to the Round of 16.
• Teams Ranked 9th to 24th: These sixteen teams will face each other in a two-legged knockout playoff round to earn their spot in the Round of 16.
• Teams Ranked 25th to 36th: These teams are eliminated from all European competition for the season.

From the Round of 16 onwards, the competition follows a traditional straight knockout format, with quarter-finals and semi-finals, all leading to the grand final in Istanbul.

Key Dates for the 2025/26 Season

Mark your calendars because the action starts early and continues right through to May. From the initial qualifying draws to the final whistle, here are the dates you won’t want to miss.

Draw Dates

• League Phase Draw: August 29, 2025
• Knockout Playoff Draw: January 30, 2026
• Round of 16 & Beyond Draw: February 27, 2026

Matchday Schedule

• Matchday 1: September 24-25, 2025
• Matchday 2: October 2, 2025
• Matchday 3: October 23, 2025
• Matchday 4: November 6, 2025
• Matchday 5: November 27, 2025
• Matchday 6: December 11, 2025
• Matchday 7: January 22, 2026
• Matchday 8: January 29, 2026

Knockout Stage Dates

• Knockout Playoffs: February 19 & 26, 2026
• Round of 16: March 12 & 19, 2026
• Quarter-finals: April 9 & 16, 2026
• Semi-finals: April 30 & May 7, 2026
• Final: May 20, 2026

Which Teams Have Qualified?

The 36-team lineup features a mix of European giants, domestic cup winners, and high-flying league performers. While the full list was confirmed after the qualifying rounds, many clubs secured their spots early. Notable teams participating in the league phase include Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest from England, Roma and Bologna from Italy, and Spain’s Real Betis.

Here are just a few of the clubs to watch:

Aston Villa will be looking to make a strong impression on their return to this stage of European football.

Conclusion: A New Era of European Football

The 2025/26 UEFA Europa League is set to be an unforgettable tournament. The expanded league phase guarantees more high-stakes matches and unpredictable outcomes as clubs navigate their unique schedules. With a blend of legendary clubs and ambitious newcomers, the road to the final at Beşiktaş Stadium in Istanbul is wide open. Ultimately, this new format promises a thrilling season of football for fans across the globe.