UEFA Considers Champions League Rule Change Following Arsenal Disadvantage

UEFA is reviewing potential changes to the Champions League format after concerns were raised about competitive fairness—particularly following Arsenal’s semi-final scheduling disadvantage.

Despite finishing third in the new 36-team league stage and earning a top seed for the knockout rounds, Arsenal were drawn to play the second leg of their semi-final away at Paris Saint-Germain.

Under the current rules, knockout fixtures are determined by an open draw, meaning strong performances in the league stage do not guarantee scheduling benefits.

In contrast, Real Madrid, another seeded team, hosted the decisive second leg of their quarter-final at the Santiago Bernabéu. Although Arsenal convincingly won their own quarter-final 5–1 on aggregate, they now face the challenge of overturning a 1–0 deficit from the first leg in Paris—despite PSG having placed 15th in the league phase.

UEFA officials have acknowledged the inconsistency and have initiated discussions about potential reforms. One proposed adjustment would ensure that higher-seeded teams automatically host the second leg in future rounds, providing a more consistent reward for strong early-stage performances.

Additionally, UEFA is exploring the possibility of removing penalty shootouts from qualifying play-offs to further streamline the competition structure.

Discussions remain ongoing, with any confirmed changes expected to be implemented in future editions of the tournament.