For Barcelona, the lack of a Champions League trophy in a decade is a source of major disappointment.
In the time since Xavi Hernández lifted the cup at the end of his farewell appearance 10 years ago, bitter rivals Real Madrid have added five victories to their record tally.
Barcelona once dominated this competition themselves, enjoying three triumphs in quick succession in 2005–06, 2008–09 and 2010–11, before 2014–15 made it four in the space of 10 seasons.
Last season, Hansi Flick oversaw an impressive run to the semifinals that ended in agonizing fashion. But that last four appearances, combined with their domestic dominance, has brought renewed hope about Barça’s prospects on the European stage.
With the league phase draw for 2025–26 now made, all eight opponents the Catalans will face in the opening round are known. The journey starts again here.
