The UEFA Champions League's first-ever league phase came to a dramatic close on Wednesday, setting up for an equally entertaining knockout stage that begins in two weeks' time. The introduction of the new format means the Champions League will introduce a new phase of competition in February when 16 teams will take part in the knockout round playoffs.

There is going to be a blockbuster Champions League knockout playoff round tie between Manchester City and Bayern Munich or Real Madrid. Here's why.

Manchester City face an intriguing Champions League last 16 play-off tie against either title holders Real Madrid or five-time winners Bayern Munich. That is already known because all 24 teams that have advanced from the league phase are placed in a tennis-like bracket for the first time - showing a team's potential path towards the May 31 final in Munich.

The French youngster is attracting major Premier League interest from Tottenham, Chelsea, Manchester United and Aston Villa. Eberl, quoted by the London Evening Standard, said: "We spoke in December and Mathys said he wanted to assert himself. "Now he has said he would like to leave.

Manchester United are interested in a potential move for Bayern Munich forward Mathys Tel, should the 19-year-old be made available to leave on loan before the transfer window closes. The Premier League club are not actively progressing the situation while they focus on departures,