Arne Slot Reacts as Liverpool Draw Real Madrid Again in 2025/26 Champions League

Liverpool have discovered their opponents for the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League league phase, and Arne Slot has admitted it is a “very challenging draw.” The Reds will once again face Real Madrid, renewing one of European football’s biggest rivalries.

The draw, held in Monaco, paired Liverpool and Real Madrid for the second consecutive season, setting up another blockbuster clash at Anfield. The Premier League champions will also face Atletico Madrid, PSV Eindhoven and Qarabag at home, while tough away trips await against Inter Milan, Eintracht Frankfurt, Marseille and Galatasaray.

Last season, Liverpool impressed in the league phase with seven wins from eight matches, but their journey ended in the round of 16 against eventual champions Paris Saint-Germain.

Speaking to the club’s official website, Slot said:

“Like last season, it is a very challenging draw, but that is what you expect in the Champions League. With the new format, there are no easy fixtures, only exciting games against top opponents. To be able to welcome Real Madrid to Anfield again is something truly special. That fixture is one the whole football world will be watching.”

Slot also highlighted the prestige of facing domestic champions such as PSV Eindhoven, Galatasaray, and Qarabag, alongside giants like Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid.

The Liverpool manager added that none of the fixtures will be straightforward but believes supporters will relish every match:

“Our fans will look forward to every Anfield night and also to the away games, which will all be played in historic stadiums with passionate atmospheres.”