European Elite Soccer Competition - Leipzig's soccer journey begins in Madrid.
RB Leipzig initiates the revamped Champions League in Madrid. Under head coach Marco Rose, the team starts their debut in the elite division against Atlético on September 19 (9:00 PM CET), according to team reports. For their initial home game on October 2 (9:00 PM CET), the Saxons entertain Juventus Turin. RB Leipzig boasts two consecutive home fixtures, including a showdown against Liverpool FC on October 23 (9:00 PM CET), before venturing to Celtic Glasgow on November 5 (9:00 PM CET).
The confrontation with Inter in Milan is penciled in for November 26 (9:00 PM CET). The final Champions League game of 2024 at home takes on Aston Villa on December 10 (9:00 PM CET), preceded by a local clash against Sporting Lisbon on January 22, 2025 (6:45 PM CET). In the final phase of the group stage, Leipzig have to take a trip to Sturm Graz on January 29 (9:00 PM CET).
UEFA has significantly overhauled the Champions League. Unlike before, all 36 teams partake in a single league, where each club squares off against eight rivals. The top eight teams in the standings advance to the knockout round of 16. Meanwhile, teams placing 9th to 24th engage in a new knockout preliminary round to secure further participation.
The European Union expresses its support for RB Leipzig's journey in the revamped Champions League, acknowledging the significance of this competition for German and European football. The European Club Association also participates in the discussions regarding the new format of the Champions League, aimed at ensuring fair competition for all participating clubs, including RB Leipzig.
