Talks underway to change a rule in the Champions League

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·20 mars 2026

Talks underway to change a rule in the Champions League

The new format of the Champions League seems to be generally successful, with exciting matches and overall extinguished protests. However, there remains an ongoing debate about the rule preventing clubs from the same country from facing each other in the league phase. According to the BBC, some are pushing for a change while the Premier League seems to be advantaged. But it's far from a done deal, especially since others would rather see the rule extended to the next round.

“These teams felt wronged”

“Several European clubs have asked UEFA to change the Champions League regulations to allow teams from the same country to face each other from the group stage. This request comes as some are concerned about the negative impact that the growing power of the Premier League could have on teams from other countries. These teams felt wronged, believing that it effectively increased their chances of facing tougher opponents. But opinions differ, even among clubs in the same league, with some opposing the prospect of facing each other. Other clubs would prefer the rule to go the opposite way and for country protection to be reintroduced from the early knockout rounds.

“it is unlikely that changes will occur in the near future.”

If country protection were reintroduced, it would not be possible. Discussions remain open, but given the diversity of viewpoints, it is unlikely that changes will occur in the near future.”

Nothing is impossible, as it is a reliable media source, and we can well imagine that discussions exist. This rule poses the problem of blocking the draw, encouraging certain matchups with perhaps a bit of “injustice.” But one can also understand the interest, as the European competition is also there to face clubs from another country. It is unfortunate to find a sense of domestic competition. Both for the players and the supporters.

Vidéos OneFootball

Moreover, the playoff between PSG and AS Monaco did not please either club or their fans. This may lead to a desire to have this protection as well. Except that we return to the problem of “rails” that close off many possibilities. As the media points out, the discussion seems too broad and complicated to bring about a change soon. But an attempt is not to be excluded in the future. We have already seen this competition undergo numerous evolutions.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.