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Champions League Preview: Top Contenders and Key Players to Watch

The Champions League returns with the group stage starting Tuesday, and Paris St-Germain aims to make history by winning three consecutive titles for the first time since Real Madrid achieved it from 2015 to 2018. But five English clubs are eager to challenge them, with Arsenal leading as favorites after finishing as runners-up last season.

Experts Julien Laurens and Guillem Balague share their insights on who might lift the trophy next June in Madrid, alongside statistical probabilities and players expected to shine this campaign.

Broadcast Details

  • BBC will provide match highlights every Wednesday from 22:00 BST on BBC iPlayer, the BBC Sport website, and app.
  • Key moments will appear in the Shorts tab on the BBC Sport app.
  • A special Champions League Match of the Day airs on BBC One at 22:40 on Wednesdays.
  • This week includes a Thursday highlights show on BBC Two at 22:30, with clips available from 22:00.

Who Are the Main Favorites?

Julien Laurens’ Take:

"If PSG clinch three straight titles, it would be extraordinary. But I doubt it. Winning two in a row is already remarkable; a third demands someone like Cristiano Ronaldo, which PSG lack. I expect PSG to reach at least the semi-finals but think Arsenal and Bayern Munich have the best chances to contest the final. Arsenal's defense is unmatched in Europe, and that’s often what wins trophies. My prediction: Arsenal lifts the trophy, PSG reach the last four, Bayern come close as runners-up."

Guillem Balague’s Viewpoint:

"PSG’s uneven start shows how challenging consistency is. Luis Enrique drives an intense, dynamic style that demands much from his players. The group stage is a testing ground before the decisive second half of the season. Still, they remain strong contenders. Meanwhile, Barcelona are flying high, though they seek reinforcements in central defense and attack to reach the next level under Hansi Flick. Arsenal has found a winning formula, and with pressure eased, their performances should improve. The semifinal spots likely include PSG, Barcelona, Arsenal, and then Bayern, Real Madrid, or Manchester City depending on the draw."

Players to Keep an Eye On

Julien Laurens Highlights:

  • Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid) - Playing in the number 10 role suits him well. After a strong World Cup, he’s set to be decisive and score plenty.
  • Nico Paz (Como) - The club’s first Champions League appearance features manager Cesc Fabregas. Paz, the team’s playmaker, is developing fast and promises to be a future star.
  • Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (PSG) - A standout winger capable with both feet and a contender for the Ballon d’Or. His flair keeps fans on edge.
  • Ismaelo Ganiou (Lens) - Young, quick, and physical center-back who impressed Ligue 1 last season and may move to the Premier League soon.
  • Donyell Malen (Roma) - Since joining Roma, he has scored almost a goal per game. Roma’s entertaining style suits him well.

Guillem Balague’s Picks:

  • Harry Kane (Bayern Munich) - A strong contender for the Ballon d’Or; Bayern’s system fits his style perfectly.
  • Lamine Yamal (Barcelona) - Young and hungry, he thrives in Hansi Flick’s pressing style.
  • Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (PSG) - Expected to lead PSG deep into the tournament again and claim big victories.
  • Kaua Elias (Shakhtar Donetsk) - A promising Brazilian talent to watch.
  • Martin Odegaard (Arsenal) - After injury troubles last season, he’s back in form and ready to lead.

Statistical Outlook

  • Arsenal are favored to win with a 20.4% chance, according to Opta.
  • Bayern Munich follow closely at 20%.
  • Manchester City, winners in 2023, hold a 12.7% chance.
  • PSG have a 7.3% shot at a third consecutive title.
  • All five Premier League sides rank in the top 10 for overall win probability, each with over 50% chance to reach the last-16.
  • Liverpool have the easiest group stage draw; Stuttgart and Inter Milan also have favorable paths.
  • Arsenal face Real Madrid and Bayern but also two lower-ranked teams, Sabah and Slovan Bratislava.
  • Manchester City encounter a tough group including Barcelona, PSG, and Napoli.

Debut Teams and Their Chances

Guillem Balague says: "Como under Cesc Fabregas is an exciting project; their freedom to experiment could help them reach the knockout stages. Austrian side LASK showed grit to pass Celtic but probably won’t advance further. Sabah from Azerbaijan face a brutal schedule against Arsenal, Man United, Barcelona, and Dortmund; they might surprise but likely won’t qualify. Viking face Bayern, Atletico, Napoli, and Aston Villa. Norwegian football’s smart coaching could see them reach knockouts."

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