Why Real Madrid won’t return to Liverpool in the Champions League anytime soon

Real Madrid are back at Anfield on Tuesday, November 4 for the second year in a row in the Champions League. Last season, the Spanish giants also faced Liverpool at their iconic home during the league phase, a night they’d rather forget after a 2-0 defeat that left Carlo Ancelotti’s squad with slim hopes of advancing to the top eight. As things stand, that matchup won’t happen again next season.

No three straight years at the same stadium

UEFA’s revamped Champions League format continues to bring new regulations designed to “balance” competition and variety. Starting next year, clubs won’t be allowed to play three consecutive league-phase games at the same stadium.

That means after visiting Liverpool last season and again this year, Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid will be “barred” from playing at Anfield in the 2026-27 league phase.

Knockout-stage and Bernabéu meetings still possible

The rule applies across the competition, preventing any club from visiting the same stadium for three straight years in the league phase. However, it doesn’t affect potential knockout-stage matchups, so Liverpool and Real Madrid could still meet again at Anfield later in the tournament.

Importantly, the restriction only applies to away venues. So the English side could still play at the Santiago Bernabéu if drawn there next season.

UEFA shaping its “new” Champions League

UEFA continues to refine its expanded Champions League format, aiming to avoid repetitive fixtures and keep the tournament fresh for fans. With more teams now competing, the organization doesn’t want supporters watching the same opponents year after year.

That means Liverpool fans should savor Real Madrid’s visit to Anfield this week. It’s already confirmed they won’t see the Spanish club return there next season in the league phase.