Champions League returns as Real Madrid and Manchester City prepare for openers

The 2026/27 Champions League league phase kicks off today with several high-profile matches across Europe. José Mourinho leads Real Madrid against Inter at the Bernabéu, a venue where he previously secured a European title. Meanwhile, Manchester City travels to Portugal to face Porto under the management of Enzo Maresca. Aston Villa begins its return to the competition with a trip to Club Brugge as Unai Emery looks for the team's first goal and win of the season. Other matches feature Borussia Dortmund hosting Villarreal, while Real Betis faces Lille following a recent result against Real. Although defending champions PSG and Arsenal remain sidelined until tomorrow, four other recent finalists are in action today as the tournament gets underway.

• 3:42 PMYahoo Sports — All the build up as the 2026/27 Champions League season kicks off