European football body UEFA hailed the “more dynamic” new format of the Champions League as a huge success after the first phase concluded on Wednesday while all of the continent’s biggest clubs survived to reach the knockout stage.
RB Leipzig have made Xavi Simons’ loan from Paris Saint-Germain permanent, breaking the club’s transfer record to sign the attacking midfielder until 2027.
Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has left his role as Saudi side Al-Ettifaq’s coach by mutual consent after 18 months in charge, the club said on Thursday.
Coach Jose Riveiro leads the Buccaneers to his sixth Soweto derby on the weekend as Orlando Pirates head coach, having won three of the last five derbies against Kaizer Chiefs.
Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven twice came from behind Wednesday to beat Liverpool 3-2 in a spectacular Champions League match, denying the Reds a perfect record in the league phase.
Arsenal, Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid all qualified directly for the Champions League last 16 on Wednesday with wins in their final league-phase matches.
A blaze erupted outside Manchester City’s Etihad stadium after a merchandise stand caught fire just hours before Wednesday evening’s crucial Champions League tie against Club Brugge.
Kylian Mbappé has found top form in 2025, developing a strong partnership with Jude Bellingham at Santiago Bernabéu.
French International Kolo Muani has agreed to spend the remainder of the 24/25 season in Turin, on loan from PSG.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has left out 12 of his key players ahead of their Champions League final game against PSV Eindhoven on Thursday evening.