Will we see a PSG-OM clash in Europe? Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Olympique de Marseille (OM) will both participate in the 2025-2026 Champions League. While supporters will discover their opponents on August 28th at the draw, a PSG-OM showdown in the European cup seems unlikely. This is due to a specific regulation... at least until January.
Why a Paris - Marseille Match Won't Happen Immediately
As per procedure, the 36 participating clubs will discover their opponents for the regular season through the draw. Each team will draw eight names, two from each pot. However, they cannot face just any club.
UEFA's Article 16.02 states: "Teams from the same association will not, in principle, be drawn against each other." Based on this principle, Marseille is guaranteed to avoid Paris SG and Monaco... preventing a Classique at this stage of the competition. Note that UEFA reserves the right to adapt "any condition of the draw to avoid deadlock situations."
Impact on Other Leagues
While this rule doesn't significantly impact French clubs, it could change things for others, like English teams. For example, Newcastle, in Pot 4, cannot face Manchester City, Liverpool, and Chelsea in Pot 1. They will face two opponents from PSG, etc.
- PSG and OM are both qualified for the Champions League.
- The draw takes place on August 28th.
- UEFA regulations prevent teams from the same association from facing each other in the initial stages.