When is the UEFA Champions League knockout playoff draw? Man City date, time and rules

Liverpool are the only team in the Champions League to progress to the group stage matches with a flawless win record - comfortably leading the 32-club table.

After beating Lille 2-1 at Anfield on Tuesday evening, Liverpool sealed their place directly into the last-16. Teams ranked as low as 26th in the table still have a good chance of progressing, with just two games left until the advancing teams are confirmed.

This promises an exciting period filled with uncertainty and various outcomes, although Arne Slot can remain quite relaxed. His Liverpool squad has gained a significant advantage over the busy festive and New Year period, allowing them to rest and rotate throughout January. However, Manchester City and Arsenal are not so lucky.

Pep Guardiola's side only have two wins to their name and sit 24th in the table. If they finish outside of the top-eight, they will have to compete in a two-legged play-off to secure a place in the knockout.

Here, the Manchester Evening News provides all the information you need about the knockout rounds and draws.

The new format indicates a potential split, with the top eight teams advancing directly to the last-16, while those ranked ninth to 24th will enter a play-off round. Matchday seven is scheduled for this midweek (January 21 and 22), with the final set of games all occurring simultaneously on January 29.

There's then a brief pause before the play-offs commence. The first legs are slated for February 11 or 12, with the return fixtures taking place a week later on February 18 or 19.

The last-16 matches are due to be played on March 4 and 5, with second legs the following week. By March 12, clubs will know their fate and who remains in the final eight.

For Liverpool, there's