Real Madrid, the reigning champions of the UEFA Champions League, discovered their group stage opponents in the draw that took place in Monaco on Thursday night. The team managed by Carlo Ancelotti will have an exciting lineup of matches ahead, including clashes with Borussia Dortmund, Liverpool, AC Milan, Atalanta, Salzburg, Lille, Stuttgart, and Brest.

The draw holds particular significance for Real Madrid as they will have the opportunity to face Borussia Dortmund, the team they defeated 2-0 in the UCL finals earlier this year to claim their 15th title. Additionally, they will square off against Liverpool, a team they triumphed over in the finals of the competition in both 2018 and 2022. This fixture will undoubtedly bring back fond memories for Ancelotti, who has the accolade of being the most successful coach in Champions League history with five titles to his name.

One of the most highly anticipated clashes will be the encounter with Milan, Ancelotti's former club. The Italian manager was instrumental in overseeing both Milan's Champions League victories in 2003 and 2007, as well as three of Madrid's triumphs in 2014, 2022, and 2024. This match will undoubtedly hold a special place in Ancelotti's heart, as he faces his former team on the European stage.

The draw has also pitted Real Madrid against Atalanta, the team they defeated 2-0 in the recent UEFA Super Cup final, thanks to goals from Fede Valverde and Kylian Mbappe. Mbappe's high-profile transfer from Paris Saint-Germain has made him one of the key players to watch, as he aims to add continental success to his already impressive resume. The young forward will be hoping to make a mark in the Champions League and potentially strengthen his chances of winning the prestigious Ballon d'Or.

With Real Madrid participating in multiple competitions this season, including potentially more than 70 games, Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that rotation within the squad will be essential. As the Champions League kicks off between September 17 and 19, fans can expect to see different lineups as Ancelotti manages his team's busy schedule.

Real Madrid's path in the 2024/2025 Champions League campaign promises to be a challenging one, facing tough opponents and striving for further European glory. Fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the start of the competition, hoping to see Los Blancos continue their successful run in Europe's premier club tournament.