While other European teams duke it out for the right to be in the Champions League group stage, Celtic are safe in knowing their slot is already secured.
The bhoys earned the right to compete by winning the SPFL title for the 22/23 season.
As the qualifiers go on, Celtic fans can watch with interest who will join them in this year’s competition. However, when can we start to get really excited about the competition?
The most prominent date in our calendar over the next month or so is the Champions League Draw, so when is it?
The 2023/24 UEFA Champions League group stage draw occurs on Thursday 31 August.
After the final qualification fixture on 31 August 2023, teams will have slightly less than three weeks to study and assess their opponents before the first group-stage match of Europe’s premier competition, which is scheduled for 19-20 September.
Fortunately, during this period, managers and coaching staff will have the advantage of the season’s first international break, which is set between 4-12 September. This break will provide them with valuable time to prepare thoroughly for the opening round of the competition.
The draw for the previous season was broadcasted live on UEFA’s official website at no cost. Additionally, BT Sport provided coverage of the draw on their YouTube channel. Even with the rebrand to TNT Sports during the summer, it is anticipated that the usual Champions League broadcaster will continue to air the draw this time around.
When are the 2023/24 Champions League group stage matches?
Matchday 1: 19/20 September 2023
Matchday 2: 3/4 October 2023
Matchday 3: 24/25 October 2023
Matchday 4: 7/8 November 2023
Matchday 5: 28/29 November 2023
Matchday 6: 12/13 December 2023
The best of the best are in this competition, and Celtic failed to win last season’s competition. They will be looking to do much more in the groups this year. However, it’s going to be a tall order.
