Atletico Madrid begin their Europa League campaign away to Hapoel Tel-Aviv, whilst Athletic Bilbao host fellow Israelis Kiryat Shmona.
The draw for the Europa League group stages was made earlier today in Monaco, and handed holders Atletico a tricky test away against the Red Demons in their opening match. They then host Viktoria Plzen, before a home and away double-header against Academica.
Marcelo Bielsa's side, who were beaten 3-0 by Atletico in last year's final, are at home to current Israeli champions Kiryat before travelling to the Czech Republic to face Sparta Prague on matchday two. Their toughest test though, will undoubtedly be a trip to the Stade Gerland, where they face Lyon on October 25.
European new boys Levante have also been given a tough selection of matches, hosting Helsingborgs and travelling to Hannover before facing Twente home and away.
Europa League selected group stage schedule
Group B
Hapoel v Atletico – Thursday September 20
Atletico v Viktoria Plzen – Thursday October 4
Atletico v Academica – Thursday October 25
Academica v Atletico – Thursdy November 8
Atletico v Hapoel – Thursday November 22
Viktoria Plzen v Atletico – Thursday December 6
Group I
Athletic v Kiryat Shmona – Thursday September 20
Sparta Prague v Athletic – Thursday October 4
Lyon v Athletic v Thursday October 25
Athletic v Lyon v Thursday November 8
Kiryat Shmona v Athletic – Thursday November 22
Athletic v Sparta Prague – Thursday December 6
Group L
Levante v Helsingborgs – Thursday September 20
Hannover v Levante – Thursday October 4
Levante v Twente – Thursday October 25
Twente v Levante – Thursday November 8
Helsingborgs v Levante – Thursday November 22
Levante v Hannover – Thursday December 6