I decided to compare the composition of the two Group Stages with the new qualifying format to the five Group Stages before that. Here are the averages: 2009-2010 and 2010-2011: 18 champions (this number is fixed) 7 2nd place (8 one season and 6 the other) 5 3rd place (same both seasons) 2 4th place (3 one season and 1 the other) 2004-2005 through 2008-2009: 14.6 champions (range of 13 to 16) 10 2nd place (range of 9 to 11) 4.8 3rd place (range of 4 to 6) 2.4 4th place (range of 1 to 3) 0.2 5th place (1 time as defending champion) The biggest difference appears to be more champions and fewer second place clubs in the new format. Six second place clubs start in the Group Stage in both formats, but in the new format second place clubs have to play clubs from elite leagues in the Third Qualifying Round and Playoff Round. The most second place clubs that could make the Group Stage in the current format is 11.
That was what Platini wanted with his reform. More champions in the CL. Thanks for the statistic, it proves it worked so far.