Liverpool are back in the UEFA Youth League and begin their campaign at AC Milan this afternoon

Trey Nyoni during today's Liverpool training session.(Image: Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

It isn't just Arne Slot's side who will be stepping into a new European era today.

A few hours before the seniors walk out at the San Siro, Liverpool return to the UEFA Youth League after an absence of a year.

After the first team regained their place in the Champions League, a Reds under-19 side will once again pit their wits against the best academy teams from across Europe, with the new league format mirroring the scheduled revamped main competition - albeit without the final two additional games.

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Liverpool will therefore begin their UEFA Youth League programme against AC Milan at the Centro Sportivo Vismara this afternoon (kick-off 1.30pm).

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"I suppose this time it gives us six games against six different opponents," says U21s coach Barry Lewtas, who will take charge of the team.

It’s a real good stepping stone and a test in their young career."

The value of the UEFA Youth League can be seen in current first-team squad members Curtis Jones, Harvey Elliott, Jarell Quansah, Caoimhin Kelleher, Conor Bradley and Tyler Morton all gaining valuable experience with Liverpool in the competition.

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This will be the sixth time Liverpool have taken part, having previously twice reached the quarter-finals.

Champions League nights are very special at Anfield and Champions League nights at the San Siro is a fantastic experience as well, so I’m really pleased that this current group will get the opportunity that others have had before them."

Liverpool are on the hunt for their seventh European Cup.

And this Liverpool Echo guide to the competition is the perfect companion to guide Reds fans through the new-look tournament.

We look at the key factors for new boss Arne Slot as he looks to add the latest chapter in the proud European history of the club, and the players who can help him achieve that.

We break down Liverpool's opposition in the league stage, look at the 10 top stars in the competition and also turn the spotlight on all 36 clubs battling it out for the trophy.

And, of course, we take a trip down memory lane and relive some of those wonderful European nights.

You can order now with worldwide delivery right here.

Liverpool Champions League special 2024/25

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With 18-year-old striker Jayden Danns recovering from injury, 17-year-old midfielder Trey Nyoni is perhaps the most recognisable player eligible to play in Milan, with goalkeeper Kornel Misciur, defenders Amara Nallo and Carter Pinnington and attackers Kieran Morrison and Trent Kone-Doherty are also among those available.

New signings Rio Ngumoha and Alvin Ayman, both 16, made their Liverpool debuts for the U18s in the 2-0 defeat at home to Blackburn Rovers at the weekend with Ngumoha, the left winger signed from Chelsea, expected to be part of the squad for the U19s in Milan.

And U18s boss Marc Bridge-Wilkinson says: "They are really nice, humble boys with a great attitude to learn.
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