The clubs Sunderland, Crystal Palace, Bournemouth, Brighton, Celtic and Hearts have all received the specifics of their upcoming Europa League and Conference League fixtures for the current season. The draws for the league phases of both tournaments were conducted on Friday, setting the schedule for the participating teams. In the Europa League, each club will contest eight matches, while the Conference League participants will play six matches, with each side enjoying an equal number of home and away games. These fixtures will be spread across the period from September 2026 through to January 2027.
Sunderland's qualification marks a historic moment, as it is the club's first appearance in European competition in 53 years. Their inaugural European tie will see them travel to the iconic San Siro stadium to face the storied Italian side AC Milan.
Meanwhile, Bournemouth, also making their debut on the continental stage, will host AC Milan at their own ground, offering fans a rare opportunity to see the Italian giants on home soil. Celtic's itinerary includes a home match against French club Marseille and an away trip to Benfica, the team managed by Marco Silva, as part of their eight-game Europa League campaign. Crystal Palace, who lifted the Conference League trophy last season, will welcome Spanish LaLiga outfit Real Sociedad for a home fixture and later travel to France to take on Lyon. The schedule for the group stage is laid out as follows: - Matchday 1: 16/17 September - Matchday 2: 15 October - Matchday 3: 22 October - Matchday 4: 5 November - Matchday 5: 26 November - Matchday 6: 10 December - Matchday 7: 21 January 2027 - Matchday 8: 28 January 2027 Following the league phase, the knockout rounds will commence with play‑offs on 18 and 25 February 2027.
The round of 16 is slated for 11 and 18 March 2027, the quarter‑finals for 8 and 15 April 2027, and the semi‑finals for 29 April and 6 May 2027. The grand finale will be held on 26 May 2027 at Stadion Frankfurt in Germany. In addition to the Europa League timetable, the Conference League fixtures are also detailed.
Fans can download the Sky Sports App or follow updates via Sky Sports on WhatsApp to stay informed. The Conference League matchdays are scheduled as follows: - Matchday 1: 15 October - Matchday 2: 22 October - Matchday 3: 5 November - Matchday 4: 26 November - Matchday 5: 10 December - Matchday 6: 17 December The knockout phase for the Conference League mirrors the Europa League dates for the play‑offs, round of 16, quarter‑finals and semi‑finals, but the final will take place a week later, on 2 June 2027, at Besiktas Park in Istanbul, Turkey.
These fixtures represent a significant milestone for several clubs, particularly those like Sunderland and Bournemouth, who are venturing into European competition for the first time in decades. The exposure to continental opponents offers valuable experience, financial benefits, and the chance to raise the clubs' profiles on a broader stage.
For seasoned participants such as Celtic and Crystal Palace, the schedule provides another opportunity to test their squads against diverse playing styles and to chase further silverware. Supporters can look forward to a packed calendar of football, with travel across the continent bringing a mix of historic stadiums, passionate fanbases, and high‑stakes matches.
The blend of established powerhouses and newcomers promises a compelling narrative throughout the season, as teams strive to progress through the group stages and into the knockout rounds. Beyond the on‑field action, the competitions also feature ancillary promotions, such as the "Super 6" contest, which offers participants a chance to win a £1 million prize at no cost.
Fans are encouraged to engage with these offers while enjoying the thrilling football on display. Overall, the confirmed fixtures set the stage for an exciting European campaign, with each club eager to make its mark, whether by defending a title, achieving a historic first, or simply showcasing their talent on an international platform.