The 2024/24 edition of the Champions League will have a new format and some changes to the qualification process too.
The Champions League is seen as the promised land of modern football as all the glitz, glamour and money congregate in the competition. The best teams, the best players and the best fixtures are all boasted as part of being involved.
It’s the reason why Tottenham and all of their rivals will be so keen to put their name in the hat for the Champions League next season. Qualification would show as tangible progress this season, the first under new manager Ange Postecoglou‘s stewardship.
A new format awaits, which includes new qualification rules for the top five European leagues. With that said, here’s a look at how that works for Tottenham’s Champions League hopes.
New Champions League format explained
The new Champions League format will see 36 teams compete in a large league table setup. This is an increase from the previous 32-team setup, which included separate groups with clubs competing for the top two spots.
Instead, sides will be drawn to play eight matches, with their final position in the overall table deciding their fate. Teams finishing in the top eight will automatically qualify for the knockout rounds, while teams in ninth to 24th will be drawn into a two-legged playoff – anyone below that will be knocked out.
Champions League fifth place latest
The Premier League no longer has a chance of earning a fifth spot for qualification.
The countries with the two best coefficients, for their performance in European competitions, earn an extra place to qualify through the league.
Current rankings have Italy and Germany ahead of England in the race, with enough coefficient points to confirm them as the beneficiaries of an extra Champions League place.
This is due to most of the Premier League sides being knocked out of European competitions, with only Aston Villa remaining in the Europa Conference League.
Tottenham Champions League chances
Tottenham’s Champions League chances would be boosted with a fifth Champions League place. Spurs can put any doubt aside though, should they finish in the top four ahead of their rivals.
As it stands, Aston Villa are the Lilywhites’ biggest competitor in landing fourth or fifth. Postecoglou will certainly be hopeful that his side can confirm Champions League football in his first campaign in charge.
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