they will go straight to the group stage without doing the preliminary rounds. Does this mean that three English clubs will get automatic access to the group stage or that they will replace Chelsea and we will have to do the preliminary round? Can anyone shed some light?

they will go straight to the group stage without doing the preliminary rounds. Does this mean that three English clubs will get automatic access to the group stage or that they will replace Chelsea and we will have to do the preliminary round? Can anyone shed some light?

3 clubs go straight in is my understanding. They finally sorted themselves out by getting a proper rule last season. Winners go in as seeds, top two from england spain and italy also straight in.

Yes, and if I understood correctly, 3 clubs and only 3 clubs at most p/ country will be allowed. No more bending the rules for no one as happened before with .... a certain club.