It's been a journey into the unknown, but the new-look Champions League is finally reaching the climax of the league phase. Here's what's needed to go through.

Much has changed in this season's Champions League, the knockout play-off phase being one major new introduction

THE expanded Champions League has delighted and confused fans in equal abundance this season. More teams and more matches – plus a league table to contend with – have left many fans

Arsenal sit fifth in the Champions League table heading into tonight’s action, having won four of their opening six games. They drew with Europa League holders Atalanta and lost to Inter Milan but have otherwise impressed, with the 5-1 win away at Sporting CP surely their standout performance.

While Liverpool narrowly missed clinching top spot with a game to spare in the Champions League despite a 2-1 defeat of French side Lille on Tuesday, manager Arne Slot said finishing in the top eight and avoiding two playoff games was the most important thing.

Pep Guardiola’s side would have been among the favourites to win the competition outright before a ball was kicked this season but are sat 24th in the Champions League table heading into tonight’s huge clash at Paris Saint-Germain.

Liverpool boss Arne Slot is not convinced that finishing top of the Champions League's inaugural league phase standings will prove to be an advantage after securing progress to the last 16 on Tuesday.