Champions League schedule twist explained
Manchester City open their Champions League campaign against Napoli at the Etihad on Thursday, 18 September 2025, an unusual slot caused by UEFA’s new format. Pep Guardiola’s side kick off at 8pm, with Barcelona v Newcastle also set for the same evening.
Fans need not worry though — it’s just one special Thursday all season, not a permanent move. Think of it as football’s version of pineapple on pizza: unexpected, slightly confusing, but somehow still served up by Europe.
