Champions League Returns: Top Contenders and Key Players to Follow
The Champions League kicks off again with Paris St-Germain aiming to secure a historic third consecutive title when the final takes place in Madrid on 5 June next year. Five English teams, led by Arsenal, who finished as runners-up last season, are eager to challenge PSG’s dominance.
Football experts Julien Laurens and Guillem Balague shared their views on potential winners and standout players. Fans can also cast their votes for the team they believe will lift the trophy. The BBC will provide extensive coverage, including match highlights available from 22:00 BST on Wednesdays via BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app, plus a special Match of the Day broadcast on BBC One at 22:40.
Favourites to Win
Julien Laurens believes that while a three-peat for PSG would be remarkable, it’s unlikely without a player like Cristiano Ronaldo. He expects PSG to reach at least the semi-finals but sees Arsenal and Bayern Munich as the strongest challengers. Laurens picks Arsenal as champions thanks to their outstanding defense, which he believes is crucial for winning titles.
Guillem Balague points out PSG’s inconsistent start this season reflects how hard it is to maintain top form. Luis Enrique’s team is experimenting during the group stage before tightening up later in the campaign. Barcelona is performing well but still seeks reinforcements. Balague predicts Arsenal, PSG, and Barcelona will likely reach the semi-finals, with Bayern, Real Madrid, or Manchester City rounding out the top contenders depending on the draw.
Players to Watch
- Jude Bellingham: Laurens highlights him as crucial for Real Madrid, expecting a breakthrough season in Mourinho’s system following a strong World Cup.
- Nico Paz: Como’s number 10 plays a central role in their first Champions League appearance, coached by Cesc Fabregas, and shows signs of becoming a top player.
- Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: A key figure for PSG, known for his technical skill and goal-scoring, he is considered a serious Ballon d’Or contender.
- Ismaelo Ganiou: Lens’ young centre-back impresses with speed, strength, and ball skills, attracting Premier League interest.
- Donyell Malen: Since joining Roma, he has been prolific, scoring nearly a goal per game, helping make Roma an exciting team to watch.
Balague adds that Harry Kane at Bayern is a strong Ballon d’Or candidate, and young talents like Lamine Yamal and Kaua Elias could make big impacts. Martin Odegaard, recovering from injury setbacks, looks ready to lead his team with confident performances.
Statistical Insights
Opta data ranks Arsenal as favourites with a 20.4% chance of winning, closely followed by Bayern Munich at 20%. PSG stands fourth with a 7.3% chance at a historic third straight title, while Manchester City sits third with 12.7%. All five English clubs have over a 50% probability of reaching the last-16.
- Group Stage Draws:
- Liverpool faces the easiest draw according to Opta’s power rankings.
- Stuttgart enjoys the easiest overall run, with Inter Milan holding the most favourable pot one draw.
- Arsenal’s draw includes top teams Real Madrid and Bayern Munich but also the lowest-ranked clubs Sabah and Slovan Bratislava.
- Manchester City confronts tough opponents, including Barcelona, PSG, and Napoli, ranking among the hardest draws.
Last season, Arsenal topped the group stages after a relatively easy fixture list, while Bayern Munich advanced despite the toughest set of opponents.
Debutant Teams: What to Expect
Guillem Balague praises Como's manager Cesc Fabregas for his commitment to the project and expects them to reach the knockout rounds. Austrian side LASK showed solid performance in qualifying but may fall short of progressing further. Azerbaijan’s Sabah face a daunting group with Arsenal, Manchester United, Barcelona, and Borussia Dortmund, likely limiting their advancement. Viking from Norway, despite a tough group including Bayern and Atletico, might have a chance due to their competitive squad and coaching.
