⚽ Champions League Twist: Why Liverpool May Be Blocked From Hosting Real Madrid at Anfield in 2026/27 😱
The Champions League draw has once again thrown up some mouthwatering fixtures – but there’s a big twist involving Liverpool and Real Madrid that fans might not have expected.
UEFA’s latest competition rule means that the Reds could be prevented from playing Los Blancos at Anfield in the 2026/27 season. Yes, you read that right – even if the two giants are drawn against each other, the match won’t be allowed to take place on Merseyside.
🔍 Here’s why:
UEFA recently confirmed that clubs cannot face the same opponent at home for three consecutive years in the league phase of the Champions League. Since Liverpool hosted Madrid in 2024/25 and are due to welcome them again this season, next year’s clash would automatically be switched to the Santiago Bernabéu.
That potential showdown would be especially dramatic, as it could once again pit the Reds against their old nemesis – a fixture that has defined European nights at Anfield in recent years. It would also be another reminder of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s emotional exit, with the England star now wearing Madrid’s famous white shirt.
Elsewhere, English clubs have been handed blockbuster ties: Tottenham face PSG in a Super Cup rematch, while Chelsea will battle European heavyweights Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Napoli. Meanwhile, Manchester City’s ongoing rivalry with Real Madrid rolls on – but since one of their recent encounters came via a playoff, the same restriction does not apply.
💭 One thing’s for sure: UEFA’s new ruling has added yet another layer of intrigue to Europe’s biggest club competition.
