Arne Slot has described Liverpool’s Champions League draw as ‘very challenging’ yet ‘exciting,’ highlighting the tough opposition the Reds will face. Liverpool is set to clash with Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, PSV Eindhoven, and Qarabag at Anfield, while also traveling to face Inter Milan, Eintracht Frankfurt, Marseille, and Galatasaray. Slot acknowledges the strength of the competition and anticipates that every game will be a significant test, but he is also confident that Liverpool’s supporters will eagerly look forward to the upcoming matches.
Liverpool's manager, Arne Slot, has characterized the team's Champions League draw as "very challenging" but also brimming with exciting prospects. Following the draw in Monaco, Liverpool now knows its eight opponents in the league phase of the competition, setting the stage for a series of high-stakes matches.
The draw has reignited an old rivalry, pitting Liverpool against Real Madrid for the second consecutive year. This highly anticipated clash could also see the return of former Liverpool star, Trent Alexander-Arnold, to Anfield, adding an emotional layer to the encounter. Fans are already speculating about the reception he will receive from the Anfield faithful.
Liverpool's schedule is undeniably demanding. Anfield will host Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, PSV Eindhoven, and Qarabag, creating a fortress atmosphere that Slot will hope to capitalize on. Meanwhile, the Reds will travel to face Inter Milan, Eintracht Frankfurt, Marseille, and Galatasaray, each promising a tough test in hostile environments.
Last season, Liverpool demonstrated their Champions League credentials by dominating their league phase, winning seven of their eight games. However, their journey was cut short in the last 16 by Paris Saint-Germain, who ultimately went on to lift the trophy. This near miss will undoubtedly fuel Liverpool's ambition to go further this year.
Our #UCL league phase opponents are confirmed pic.twitter.com/jQulzkzeUs
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) August 28, 2025
Slot shared his initial thoughts on the draw with Liverpool's official website, acknowledging the difficulty but emphasizing the excitement it generates. "I think the first thing to say is that like last season, it is a very challenging draw, but we knew that it would be because in the Champions League, especially with the new format, there is no such thing as an easy draw. But what is also clear is that this is a very exciting draw, full of big games both home and away," he stated.
The prospect of welcoming Real Madrid to Anfield is particularly enticing. Slot believes this fixture will capture the attention of fans worldwide. "To be able to welcome Real Madrid to Anfield again is something special. Last season’s game was of course a memorable one – and I expect the same this time around. That is, I am sure, a fixture that the whole world will be looking at," he added.
Slot also expressed his personal interest in facing PSV Eindhoven, highlighting their recent success in the Dutch league. He also noted the challenges posed by Galatasaray, who have dominated Turkish football, and Qarabag, the champions of Azerbaijan. These matches add a diverse range of opponents to Liverpool's Champions League campaign.
The Liverpool manager is aware of the formidable challenge presented by Inter Milan, Atletico Madrid, Eintracht Frankfurt, and Marseille. He believes that these matches underscore the depth and competitiveness of the Champions League. "And to also play against sides of the calibre of Inter Milan, Atletico Madrid, Eintracht Frankfurt and Marseille shows the strength of this competition," Slot remarked.
Slot concluded by emphasizing that no game in the league phase will be easy. However, he is confident that Liverpool's supporters will be eagerly anticipating both the home and away fixtures, played in iconic stadiums with passionate fans. The blend of tough opposition and the allure of Champions League nights promises an enthralling campaign for Liverpool.
Liverpool's path in the Champions League is fraught with challenges, but Arne Slot's positive outlook and tactical acumen will be crucial in navigating this demanding schedule. The blend of familiar foes and new adversaries sets the stage for a compelling and memorable European campaign for the Reds.