The UEFA Europa League, Europe’s secondary club football competition, has undergone significant changes in its format for the 2024/2025 season. The introduction of a league phase has reshaped the traditional group stage, leading to a more dynamic and competitive environment. As of February 13, 2025, the league phase has concluded, setting the stage for the knockout rounds.
Overview of the New Format
The 2024/2025 season introduced a league phase, replacing the traditional group stage. In this format, 36 teams competed in a single league table, each playing eight matches against varied opponents. This structure aimed to increase competitiveness and provide a more balanced assessment of team performances. Unlike previous editions, where teams were grouped and played home-and-away fixtures against three other teams, this format ensured that each club faced a greater variety of opponents, reducing the likelihood of early elimination due to an unfavorable draw.
This restructuring was part of UEFA’s broader efforts to revamp European competitions, making them more engaging for fans and ensuring clubs had a fairer pathway to the knockout rounds. It also added an element of unpredictability, as teams had to consistently perform against different styles and tactical approaches throughout the league phase.
Final Standings of the League Phase
The league phase concluded with the following top eight teams automatically qualifying for the Round of 16:
hester United – 18 points
Tottenham Hotspur – 17 points
Eintracht Frankfurt – 16 points
Olympique Lyonnais – 15 points
Olympiacos – 15 pointsSS Lazio – 19 points
Athletic Club – 19 points
Manc
Rangers – 14 points
These teams demonstrated consistent performances, securing their advancement without the need for additional playoff matches. Lazio and Athletic Club finished joint-top of the table, showcasing their tactical discipline and ability to navigate the league phase effectively.
Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur’s strong performances reflected the resurgence of English clubs in the competition, while Rangers’ presence in the top eight underscored the growing competitiveness of Scottish football on the European stage.
Knockout Playoff Participants
Teams finishing in positions 9 to 24 enter the knockout playoffs to vie for a place in the Round of 16. The matchups are as follows:
Bodo/Glimt vs. Fenerbahce
Anderlecht vs. FC Twente
Steaua Bucharest vs. PAOK
Ajax Amsterdam vs. Union SG
Real Sociedad vs. Midtjylland
Galatasaray vs. AZ Alkmaar
AS Roma vs. Porto
Viktoria Plzen vs. Ferencvaros
These two-legged fixtures are scheduled for February 13 and 20, 2025, with the winners progressing to the Round of 16. The playoffs feature a mix of established European powerhouses and rising clubs, ensuring a thrilling contest for spots in the next round.
Notable Performances and Storylines
SS Lazio’s Dominance
Lazio’s impressive run saw them top the league phase, setting up a potential high-profile clash with city rivals AS Roma, should both teams progress. Maurizio Sarri’s tactical masterclass and the team’s defensive solidity played a key role in their success. Their ability to grind out results against tough opposition established them as one of the favorites for the title.
English Clubs’ Resurgence
Both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur secured direct entry to the Round of 16, showcasing the strength of English clubs in European competitions. Tottenham’s advancement was particularly noteworthy, with significant contributions from their academy players in crucial matches. The depth of both squads allowed them to rotate key players while maintaining their competitive edge, a crucial factor in their success.
Surprise Performances and Underdog Stories
One of the most exciting aspects of this season’s Europa League has been the performances of lesser-known teams who defied expectations. Clubs like Bodo/Glimt and Union SG have impressed with their tactical discipline and fearless approach against traditionally stronger opponents. Their ability to compete at this level highlights the growing competitiveness of European football and the impact of strategic recruitment and coaching. Fans are eager to see if any of these underdogs can make a deep run in the knockout stages.
Impact of the New Format on Team Strategies
With the league phase replacing the traditional group stage, teams have had to rethink their approach to squad rotation, match preparation, and point accumulation. Unlike the old format, where finishing second still guaranteed knockout qualification, the new structure placed greater emphasis on securing a top-eight finish to avoid the playoff round. This shift led to some clubs fielding stronger lineups in early matches, while others focused on peaking at the right time. Managers have expressed mixed reactions to the format, with some praising the increased competitiveness while others argue it adds further strain on already packed schedules.
Upcoming Fixtures and Expectations
As the competition advances to the knockout stages, fans anticipate thrilling encounters. The new format has already delivered heightened excitement, and the forthcoming matches promise to further captivate audiences. Teams will need to strategize effectively, balancing domestic commitments with European aspirations.
The Round of 16 draw will be a crucial moment, determining potential high-stakes clashes between elite clubs and underdog challengers. With top teams avoiding the playoff round, the competition remains unpredictable, ensuring that every match carries significant weight.
Wrapping Up
The 2024/2025 UEFA Europa League season has been transformative, with the revamped format providing fresh challenges and narratives. As the tournament progresses, the football community eagerly awaits to see which club will emerge victorious in this reimagined European contest. The new format has undoubtedly increased the stakes, making each fixture more intense and engaging for players and fans alike. With elite teams, surprise packages, and tactical battles shaping the competition, this season is set to be one of the most memorable in Europa League history.
FAQs
Q: What is the current status of the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 season?
A: As of February 13, 2025, the UEFA Europa League has concluded its league phase, and the competition is progressing into the knockout stages. The top eight teams from the league phase have automatically qualified for the Round of 16, while teams placed 9th to 24th will compete in two-legged knockout playoffs to secure their spots in the Round of 16.
Q: Which teams have automatically qualified for the Round of 16?
A: The teams that have secured automatic qualification to the Round of 16 by finishing in the top eight of the league phase are:
SS Lazio
Athletic Bilbao
Manchester United
Tottenham Hotspur
Eintracht Frankfurt
Olympique Lyonnais
Olympiacos
Rangers
These teams have demonstrated strong performances during the league phase, earning them direct entry into the Round of 16.
Q: How did Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur perform in the league phase?
A: Manchester United finished third in the league phase standings, securing their place in the Round of 16. In their final league phase match, they achieved a 2-0 victory over Steaua Bucharest, with goals from Diogo Dalot and Kobbie Mainoo.
Tottenham Hotspur secured the fourth position in the league phase, also earning direct entry into the Round of 16. Their final league phase match saw a 3-0 victory against Elfsborg, highlighted by goals from young talents Dane Scarlett, Oyindamola Ajayi, and Mikey Moore.
Q: What are the next steps in the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 season?
A: Following the conclusion of the league phase, the competition will proceed with the knockout playoffs, where teams placed 9th to 24th will compete in two-legged ties. The winners of these playoffs will join the top eight teams in the Round of 16. The draw for the knockout stages will determine the matchups, leading up to the final, where the ultimate champion of the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 season will be crowned.
To read more, click here.
