Annual European club competition since 2021
Motherwell have opened the new campaign with a string of wins under Alfred Johansson, including a 2-1 victory at Hibernian. New signings like Martin Moormann have shored up the defence, while Ibrahim Said’s late strike sealed the win. The manager praises the team’s spirit as they adapt to a possession-based style with several league debuts.
Chelsea have completed the seven-year signing of Valentin Barco from Strasbourg, adding a versatile left-back/midfielder to the squad. Barco, 21, has progressed from Brighton to Strasbourg, and is joining Chelsea ahead of the 2026-27 season as part of a busy summer of recruitment under manager Xabi Alonso.
Scottish clubs Hearts, Rangers, Hibernian and Motherwell will learn their European paths after the draws in Nyon. Rangers face Jagellonia Bialystok in the Europa League third qualifying round; Hearts could meet Benfica if they advance from Sturm Graz; Hibs and Motherwell discover potential third-round opponents in the Conference League. The fixtures are two-legged and scheduled in August, with seedings shaping seeds and matchups.