🔗 Share this article Redesigned Women's Champions League: What's New and Title Contenders What's Different? Four years following the introduction of a preliminary round, the female European championship is undergoing another transformation. This revised structure features an expanded league stage with eighteen clubs substituting the former sixteen-team group format. In this innovative setup, each team will participate in six matches versus six different opponents with three matches at their own ground and three away encounters. Only the top four teams will automatically qualify for the last eight, while positions five through twelve will battle in knockout rounds for the remaining four spots. Is This Beneficial? Time will tell if this modification proves successful. Coming just four years after the successful group stage introduction feels somewhat hasty, but perspectives may shift if this revised league format delivers entertainment. Adding two extra clubs is widely welcomed as growth was essential to support the rapid progression of women's football across Europe. This league phase also provides flexibility for future expansion. Modification typically creates initial discomfort, and we'll discover by the campaign's conclusion whether the transition period and fan adaptation were justified. The media rights deal with Disney+ constitutes an enhancement over former setups, offering greater accessibility and complemented by terrestrial broadcast opportunities that are crucial for growth if the tournament aims to increase its profile. Title Favorites The race for Europe's most prestigious trophy has never been more open. Current title holders Arsenal are facing challenges after their impressive beginning under manager Renée Slegers, having lost ground in latest league games. Notwithstanding their continental experience, their initial match against OL Lyonnes presents a substantial preliminary test. Previous finalists Barcelona remain strong contenders for the tournament they've dominated, having claimed victory three times in the past five years. Despite limited squad depth, they've started strongly in league play, though their continental journey will test their resilience given rotation limitations. Teutonic clubs Wolfsburg and Bayern Munich are engaged in rivalry at the Bundesliga summit, both maintaining undefeated records. However, it's been a decade since a German club achieved European glory. Multiple title winners OL Lyonnes have commenced perfectly in league competition and face a significant initial examination against Arsenal. Chelsea might still be processing their semi-final defeat against Barcelona but remain resolute to secure continental success. Their season start has been promising, though league displays haven't been completely persuasive. The Red Devils' Chances Marc Skinner's squad have successfully navigated preliminary stages to make their debut for the first time. Notable stalemates against domestic competitors demonstrate their capabilities, with backline organization being crucial to their encouraging beginning. However, juggling various tournaments will challenge their depth, particularly with key absences until the holiday period. Additional resources will be required for sustained European development. Their opening schedule presents a formidable obstacle with matches against multiple European giants. Breakout Candidates Stamford Bridge attacker Aggie Beever-Jones has been entrusted with spearheading the attack despite multiple alternatives in the forward positions. Four goals in five appearances justifies the team's trust in their academy product. Continental playing time would be fully deserved and achievement appears probable. Elsewhere, teenage sensation Lily Yohannes has joined OL Lyonnes from Ajax with great expectations. Having selected national team allegiance, the US youth has immediately showcased her talent with a debut goal. Given opportunities in a skilled roster, she could make significant impact. The Gunners' Katie Reid has been preferred over veteran center-backs following their captain's absence. Her physical presence, tactical awareness and positional understanding have drawn praise. While European readiness might be questioned, her domestic performances have earned consideration. Final Destination The championship decider will take place in Oslo at the Norwegian national stadium, venue for the Scandinavian national side, scheduled for May 22-24, 2026. The 27,182-capacity venue prevailed over competing bids from German and Scottish arenas to obtain organizational privileges for European football's elite female competition.