The dream begins for European hopefuls
Friday, June 20, 2025
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More than 150 clubs kicked off their 2025/26 European club football campaign at the first and second qualifying round draws this week.
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The new European club season may still feel distant to some, but in Nyon it has already begun. Around a third of the clubs populating all European top divisions every season take part in UEFA club competitions, and for many of them the journey begins early in summer with the qualification phase.
These draws mark more than a procedural start. For dozens of clubs across the continent, it is the first step on a path filled with ambition, pride, and the desire to offer their fans a European dream.
In July and August, more than 400 qualifying round matches will be played to complete the three 36-team league phase lineups which will form the focal point from September to January.
"This week’s draws are testament to what European football is all about: inclusivity, diversity, fairness and opportunity.
"I am delighted to welcome so many clubs represented in the upcoming draws. This demonstrates UEFA’s commitment in developing club football in all corners of Europe. Clubs from all of our 55 member associations must have a chance to experience world-class football and to test themselves in the world’s premier club competitions, while offering their fans a truly international adventure.
"The clubs in the draw and their fans are dreaming big. They follow in the footsteps of giant teams and legendary players. And at the end of the season, European champions will emerge who have had to beat the best to earn their crown."
More than 150 clubs from 50 national associations gathered in Nyon for the first and second qualifying round draws of the UEFA men’s club competitions. As in previous years, all clubs attending the draw were invited to stay on at the House of European Football for a social gathering, attended by Mr Čeferin and deputy general secretary Giorgio Marchetti, offering interesting networking opportunities and the possibility to share views on the future of football and European competitions with UEFA.
New format hits the mark
The new league phase format positively delivered against its key objectives of broadening access, balancing competition and increasing the appeal of UEFA competitions through high-stake compelling football matches till the very end. From underdog breakthroughs to first-time winners, and teams pushing until the final whistle, the inaugural season showed how the changes benefitted fans’ experiences and all participating clubs.
Feedback from clubs has been overwhelmingly positive. In surveys conducted post-season, nearly every respondent expressed approval of the new format. Clubs highlighted its superiority over the previous setup in terms of competitiveness and unpredictability. Many appreciated the opportunity to face a wider variety of opponents – bringing new challenges and exposure. Notable examples like Stade Brestois, FK Bodø/Glimt, NK Celje and Djurgardens IF showed how clubs can gain visibility and valuable experience, while achieving outstanding results, against Europe’s elite.
