Top nine clubs with most Champions League Round of 16 appearances

Published at :December 16, 2023 at 11:20 PM

Modified at :January 14, 2024 at 12:24 AM

A few big names failed to make it to the last 16 in the Champions League 2023-24

The crescendo of cheers and the clash of titans in the UEFA Champions League 2023-24 group stage have subsided, leaving fans on the edge of their seats as we eagerly anticipate the draw for the Round of 16. While some clubs bask in the glory of qualification, others are on the sidelines. This comprehensive review looks into the top 9 clubs with the most Round of 16 appearances, unravelling their rich histories. With its unique tale of triumphs and challenges, each club finds itself at the crossroads of footballing destiny.

Top 9 clubs with the most UCL Round of 16 appearances:

9. Manchester United (12 times)

The Theatre of Dreams has borne witness to Manchester United’s illustrious journey to the UCL Round of 16 on 12 occasions, each time etching beautiful moments into football history. However, the current chapter reveals an unexpected twist, as the Red Devils, synonymous with resilience, find themselves uncharacteristically ousted from the competition, finishing at the unforgiving bottom of their group.

8. Paris Saint-Germain – 12 Times

Paris Saint-Germain, a footballing juggernaut, shares the limelight with Manchester United, boasting an impressive tally of 12 appearances in the Round of 16. The Parisian ensemble, adorned with stars that illuminate the footballing cosmos, successfully navigated the group stage, setting the stage for yet another thrilling odyssey in the knockout round.

7. Juventus – 13 Times

The Old Lady, Juventus, stands as a bastion of European football, having graced the UCL Round of 16 stage on 13 occasions. They have a legacy steeped in triumphs and heartbreaks. However, Juventus was out of this year’s competition. Juventus have been banned from European competition for a year due to violating UEFA’s Financial Fair Play regulations.

6. FC Porto – 14 Times

From the sun-kissed shores of Portugal emerges FC Porto, a club with a rich history and an impressive record of 14 Round of 16 appearances. The Dragons, known for their indomitable spirit, have once again secured passage to the knockout phase, poised to breathe fire into the aspirations of their adversaries.

5. Arsenal – 15 Times

The Gunners, synonymous with attacking flair and a commitment to the beautiful game, have marked their territory in the UCL Round of 16 an impressive 15 times. Amidst the undulating waves of their footballing journey, Arsenal stands tall, ready to showcase their brand of football on the grand European stage.

4. Chelsea – 17 Times

Chelsea, a stalwart in English football, proudly boasts a formidable record of 17 Round of 16 appearances. However, Chelsea missed out on playing in the group stages of the UCL 2023-24 having not qualified for it.

3. FC Barcelona – 18 Times

From the mesmerising tiki-taka to indelible moments of magic, FC Barcelona has graced the UCL Round of 16 a remarkable 18 times. The Catalan giants, with a history interwoven with success, embark on yet another quest for European glory, fueled by a captivating blend of youth and seasoned experience. They could not qualify for the UCL Round of 16 in the last two seasons after Messi departed. This time around, they did qualify for the round of 16.

2. Bayern Munich – 20 Times

How many trophies have FC Bayern Munich won in their history? Champions League

Bavarian brilliance takes centre stage as Bayern Munich, a powerhouse in European football, notches up an impressive 20 Round of 16 appearances. The reigning champions navigate the tumultuous waters of the group stage, their eyes firmly fixed on winning this tournament for the seventh time.

1. Real Madrid – 21 Times

At the zenith, the crown jewel of the UCL Round of 16 appearances belongs to Real Madrid, adorned with 21 entries into the knockout stage. The Galacticos, with a legacy crafted in silverware, embark on the current edition with the singular aim of adding yet another glittering chapter to their storied history.

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