Champions League draw: Inter, Roma face Mourinho's Real Madrid; Napoli meets Arsenal, Man City

The draw for the 2026/27 Champions League group stage has set the stage for intriguing clashes, notably pitting Italian clubs against familiar foes and Jose Mourinho.

Inter Milan, the reigning Italian champions, will face a nostalgic reunion with Mourinho, now managing Real Madrid, at the Bernabeu. This encounter evokes memories of Inter's historic treble-winning season 16 years ago. Roma, too, will confront Mourinho, who previously led them to a Conference League title in 2022, at the Stadio Olimpico.

Beyond the Mourinho narrative, Italian teams face formidable challenges. Inter will also contend with Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund. Napoli, meanwhile, has been handed a difficult draw, facing last season's finalists Arsenal and Manchester City in their group. The Partenopei will also play Bodo/Glimt.

For Napoli, the minimum objective is to advance to the playoffs, a feat that eluded them last year. The draw presents tough opposition in Arsenal and Manchester City, alongside Porto, managed by Sergio Conceicao, who will aim to perform well against an Italian side.

The competition is scheduled to commence on Tuesday, September 8. While the definitive calendar awaits confirmation, clubs can now begin formulating their strategies for the group stage.