UEFA have rejected a request from Premier League clubs to expand Champions League squad sizes for next season, according to the Guardian.
Despite mounting pressure from top English clubs, the long-standing 25-player limit will remain in place.
European football’s governing body is choosing stability, refusing to budge despite the competition’s recent expansion.
Fixture congestion has become a major concern for elite clubs, especially for English sides already competing in multiple cup competitions.
The revamped 36-team league phase means there are at least two additional matches, with play-off fixtures for those who finish outside the top eight.
English clubs argue that increasing squad sizes to 28 will help managers better manage the physical toll and reduce injury risk over a longer campaign.
However, resistance from La Liga representatives proved decisive. Atletico Madrid, Sevilla and Real Sociedad reportedly raised concerns about widening the competitive gap.
They fear the wealthier Premier League sides can stockpile talent and increase their advantage.
There is also unease across Europe regarding structural benefits already afforded to English teams.
The country protection rule, which prevents clubs from the same nation meeting in the league phase, has been viewed by some as offering Premier League sides a smoother route into the knockout stage.
All six English participants progressed to the last 16 this season, underlining those concerns.
The ruling means managers still have to deal with the headache of managing a 25-man squad despite the increased number of games.
UEFA has left the door open to revisiting the debate ahead of the next broadcast cycle in 2027.
