Champions League 2026-27: Expert Predictions and Key Players to Watch

The Champions League returns, setting the stage for an intense competition culminating in Madrid on 5 June next year. Paris St-Germain aim for a historic third consecutive title as the league phase kicks off this Tuesday. Five English clubs are eager to challenge them, with Arsenal leading as favorites after their runner-up finish last season.

Football analysts Julien Laurens and Guillem Balague share their insights on the likely winners, while statistics from Opta highlight the contenders’ chances. Fans can cast their votes on who they believe will lift the trophy.

BBC Sport will continue to broadcast highlights every Wednesday night at 22:00 BST during Champions League weeks. These include full match recaps on BBC iPlayer, key moments via the BBC Sport app, and a dedicated Match of the Day program airing at 22:40 on BBC One. This Thursday, a special highlights show airs on BBC Two at 22:30 with earlier releases at 22:00.

Top Contenders for the Title

Julien Laurens suggests that while winning three titles in a row is extraordinary and unlikely without a player like Cristiano Ronaldo, PSG should reach the semi-finals. He doubts the success of Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid project and predicts a final featuring Bayern Munich and Arsenal, favoring Arsenal to win due to their strong defense.

"I think two titles back-to-back is already special. Three in a row seems impossible unless you have Cristiano Ronaldo," Laurens said.

Guillem Balague points out PSG's inconsistent start but expects them to be close to repeating their success. He notes Barcelona’s strong form, Arsenal’s newfound confidence, and predicts the semi-finalists to include PSG, Arsenal, Barcelona, and one among Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, or Manchester City.

Players to Keep an Eye On

Julien Laurens highlights five key players:

• Jude Bellingham: Expected to excel at Real Madrid in the number 10 role with a strong goal-scoring season ahead.
• Nico Paz: Como’s playmaker, guided by Cesc Fabregas, poised to become a top talent.
• Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: PSG’s winger known for technical skill and goal-scoring, a Ballon d’Or contender.
• Ismaelo Ganiou: Lens’ quick and physical centre-back attracting Premier League interest.
• Donyell Malen: Roma’s prolific striker returning to top form.

Guillem Balague spotlights:

• Harry Kane: Bayern forward aiming for the Ballon d’Or with his fit playing style.
• Lamine Yamal: A young Barcelona talent thriving under Hansi Flick’s high-press tactics.
• Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: Again noted for his game-changing ability at PSG.
• Kaua Elias: A promising Brazilian star at Shakhtar.
• Martin Odegaard: Arsenal’s leader returning from injury with strong performances.

Statistical Outlook

According to Opta data:

• Arsenal holds the highest chance to win at 20.4%.
• Bayern Munich follows closely with a 20% probability.
• Manchester City, last season’s champions, have a 12.7% chance.
• Paris St-Germain sit fourth with 7.3% odds to clinch a third straight title.

All five English teams rank within the top 10 for overall winning chances and each has over a 50% likelihood of reaching the last-16 stage.

Opta’s power rankings suggest Liverpool face the easiest group draw, while Stuttgart enjoys the simplest overall run. Inter Milan has the most favorable position among pot one teams. Despite tough draws from pot one including Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, Arsenal’s group also includes the lowest-ranked teams, potentially easing their path. Manchester City confronts a difficult schedule featuring Barcelona, PSG, and Napoli.

Debutant Teams' Prospects

Guillem Balague praises Como under Cesc Fabregas for their progressive style and expects them to reach knockout stages. Austrian club LASK demonstrated competitive spirit but likely won’t advance beyond group stage. Azerbaijan’s Sabah, despite impressive organization, faces a tough introduction against elite teams and might cause a few surprises without qualifying. Norwegian side Viking, coached by tactically sharp staff, could make it past the groups despite their challenging opponents.