Real Madrid set to face off against Liverpool in expanded 36-team Champions League

MONACO - Liverpool have been drawn to face reigning champions Real Madrid in their return to the expanded Champions League, which now features a 36-team league format.

The revamped competition has also set up other intriguing match ups, including a rematch of last year's final between Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid, while Manchester City are slated to battle Paris St Germain.

In this year's men's tournament, teams will compete in eight fixtures during the 'league phase,' marking a significant departure from the traditional group stage format.

The draw, held in Monaco, featured special guests Cristiano Ronaldo and Gianluigi Buffon.

The dates and times for each team's fixtures will be announced on Saturday.