What happened: The 2026-27 league phase begins Tuesday, Sept. 8, with 36 clubs in the main stage. Matchday 1 runs across three days.
Why it matters: Back-to-back winner PSG is only the second club to defend the trophy in the Champions League era. A third consecutive crown would equal the era's record.
By the numbers: The 36 clubs play eight league-phase matches apiece. The top eight advance directly to the round of 16; Nos. 9-24 enter knockout play-offs.
What to watch: PSG begins its league-phase schedule Wednesday. The final is set for June 5, 2027.