The Champions League will enter the knockout stages next monthThe Champions League league phase table stands on a knife-edge ahead of a potentially dramatic midweek finale. Clubs finishing in the top eight receive preferential seeding and progress directly to the round of 16, whilst those placed ninth to 24th must compete in a two-legged playoff to advance. Based on current standings, that would mean a clash with either Premier League counterparts Spurs or reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain. Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook pageThis graphic, created by Foot Rankings, shows the current Champions League pictureChelsea are eighth, meaning their pool of potential adversaries mirrors Newcastle's. However, Arsenal look set to secure second place, whilst Liverpool, given their goal difference, are unlikely to climb higher than third.

Source: Express January 28, 2026 07:14 UTC