🔗 Share this article Overhauled Female European Championship: Key Changes and Title Contenders What's Different? Four years after the introduction of a group stage, the Women's Champions League is undergoing another transformation. This revised structure includes an 18-team league phase substituting the former sixteen-team group format. Under this fresh arrangement, every squad will compete in half a dozen games against six different opponents with three matches at their own ground and three contests on foreign turf. Merely the leading quartet clubs gain direct entry for the last eight, while positions five through twelve will battle in playoffs for the remaining four spots. Positive Development? Time will tell whether this change demonstrates merit. Coming just four years subsequent to the effective preliminary round implementation feels somewhat hasty, but perspectives may shift if this revised league format provides excitement. Adding two extra clubs is generally appreciated as growth was essential to accommodate the rapid progression of women's football across Europe. This league phase also offers adaptability for additional growth. Modification typically creates initial discomfort, and we'll discover by the campaign's conclusion whether the adjustment phase and fan adaptation proved worthwhile. The broadcasting agreement with the streaming platform represents an improvement over previous arrangements, offering greater accessibility and supplemented with terrestrial broadcast opportunities that are crucial for growth if the competition aims to enhance its visibility. Championship Contenders The race for Europe's most prestigious trophy has never been more open. Current title holders Arsenal are facing challenges after their impressive beginning under manager Renée Slegers, having dropped points in recent domestic matches. Despite their European pedigree, their opening encounter against OL Lyonnes presents a significant early challenge. Last season's runners-up Barcelona remain strong contenders for the competition they've mastered, having claimed victory on three occasions in the past five years. Despite limited squad depth, they've commenced impressively in league play, though their European campaign will test their resilience given substitution constraints. Teutonic clubs Wolfsburg and Bayern Munich are locked in competition at the Bundesliga summit, both maintaining unbeaten streaks. However, it's been a decade since a Teutonic team achieved European glory. Eight-time champions OL Lyonnes have started flawlessly in domestic action and face a significant initial examination against Arsenal. Chelsea might still be recovering from their semi-final defeat against Barcelona but remain resolute to secure continental success. Their season start has been encouraging, though league displays haven't been entirely convincing. The Red Devils' Chances The Manchester team have effectively passed qualification rounds to make their debut for the first time. Notable stalemates against league rivals demonstrate their capabilities, with defensive solidity being essential for their positive start. However, juggling various tournaments will challenge their depth, particularly with important players missing until the holiday period. Further investment will be required for sustained European development. Their opening schedule presents a daunting challenge with matches against several continental powerhouses. Emerging Talents Stamford Bridge attacker Aggie Beever-Jones has been entrusted with leading the line despite numerous options in the attacking roles. A quartet of strikes in five appearances justifies the team's trust in their academy product. European minutes would be fully deserved and achievement appears probable. In other developments, young prodigy Lily Yohannes has joined OL Lyonnes from Ajax with great expectations. Having selected national team allegiance, the American teenager has immediately showcased her talent with a first-match strike. Given chances in a skilled roster, she could create substantial influence. The Gunners' Katie Reid has been selected ahead of veteran center-backs following their captain's absence. Her athletic attributes, game intelligence and defensive reading have drawn praise. While continental preparation might be debated, her league displays have warranted opportunity. Final Destination The ultimate match will take place in Oslo at Ullevaal Stadion, home to the Norwegian national team, scheduled for late May 2026. The 27,182-capacity venue outbid competing bids from Teutonic and British stadiums to obtain organizational privileges for European football's elite female competition.