Premier League clubs have been thrown into some major clashes by the Champions League draw. Chelsea takes on the holders Paris Saint-Germain while Manchester City faces Real Madrid.
The knockout round will not feature any English teams. This draw will see some intense European competition across the board.
Chelsea Set for PSG Showdown
The meeting between Chelsea and PSG brought back the memories of the FIFA Club World Cup Final from last year. In New Jersey, the Blues beat PSG 3 to 0.
David Barnard, Chelsea’s Director of Football, admitted that the task will be difficult. He made it very clear, however, that his team is confident. The focus is on one game at a time, he said.
PSG will be the defending champions. Chelsea has already proven that they are capable of competing at the top level.
Man City and Real Madrid renew rivalry
Manchester City and Real Madrid will again face off. It is the fifth consecutive season in which the two teams have met at the knockout stages.
City beat Madrid in the December league stage. This win was a new chapter in their rivalry that has been intensifying since 2022.
Hugo Viana, City’s director for football, described this match as an event in and of itself. The margins could be even closer because both teams are familiar with each other.
Arsenal, Newcastle United, Liverpool, and Tottenham learn their fate
Arsenal, the Premier League’s leaders, will play Bayer Leverkusen. This is a tough draw with one of Germany’s best sides.
Liverpool meet Galatasaray. Liverpool’s ambassador Ian Rush thinks the atmosphere at Anfield will be decisive in the second leg.
Tottenham Hotspur will face Atletico Madrid on Saturday in a battle that promises to be tactical.
Important Dates for Quarter-Final Clashes
The quarter-finals will be held if both Newcastle and Tottenham advance. Chelsea and Liverpool may also meet in the quarter-finals.
