European and Conference League opponents revealed for German clubs

German football clubs are preparing for their European campaigns after the draws for the Europa League and Conference League were announced. Bayer Leverkusen faces a challenging Europa League group stage, set to compete against French powerhouses Olympique Marseille and Olympique Lyon.

Joining Leverkusen in the Europa League draw are RB Salzburg, Beşiktaş Istanbul, NK Celje, Dinamo Zagreb, Lech Poznań, and OFI Crete. The 36 participating teams will each play eight matches in the group stage, with the first games scheduled for September 16 and 17. The top teams will advance to the knockout rounds, and the final will be held in Frankfurt am Main in May.

TSG Hoffenheim also faces a tough draw, including a match against Crystal Palace, the current Conference League champions. Their other opponents include Sturm Graz, Beşiktaş, Lyon, Olympiacos, Anderlecht, and Budapest.

In the Conference League, SC Freiburg will face Trabzonspor, a Turkish club known for its star player Mohamed Salah. They will also compete against AS Monaco and other teams. UEFA is expected to release the full match schedules by Sunday.