Since its founding in 1955, the Champions League (now European Cup) has undergone two major format changes. The first was in 1992, and the most recent one was this season with the introduction of the new league-phase format. However, along the way, small modifications have been made to continuously improve the competition… and UEFA is now considering the possibility of revolutionizing the upcoming edition by implementing three major changes.

Are extra times coming to an end in the Champions League?

According to BILD in Germany, UEFA has identified certain issues with the first edition of the new format. Some are related to the increase in the number of matches, due to the expansion from 32 to 36 teams, combined with the new dynamics of the league phase and the 'playoffs' round. The clearest example is PSG, which has reached the semifinals for the second consecutive year, but has already played four more matches than last season.

In this context, listening carefully to complaints from various clubs and governing bodies in the football world, UEFA is seriously considering eliminating extra time in the knockout rounds of the Champions League (and other international competitions). This measure had been previously dismissed by Aleksander Ceferin, but could now be reconsidered due to pressure from various stakeholders within UEFA.

The other two measures UEFA is considering for the next Champions League

Without a doubt, the possibility of UEFA eliminating extra time is the most groundbreaking measure. However, there are also other ideas on the table for next season. The first is to reintroduce the rule preventing two teams from the same country from facing each other in the round of 16. This scenario did occur this season with Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen. However, implementing this rule again is not so straightforward due to the constraints caused by league-phase standings.

The third measure, widely supported by various clubs throughout this season, involves offering greater rewards to teams that finish among the top eight in the league phase… beyond skipping the ‘playoff’ round. In response, UEFA is exploring the possibility of granting these teams the privilege of playing the second leg of all knockout rounds away from home. A privilege that, for example, Arsenal will not enjoy in the semifinals despite finishing third in the league phase.