With a revised format, a blend of seasoned titans and ambitious underdogs, and a host of thrilling matches ahead, there’s a lot to look forward to. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a casual viewer, this season has something for everyone. Let’s dive in and see what awaits.
The New Champions League Format Explained
The 2024/25 UEFA Champions League is set to bring a significant transformation to the structure we’re all accustomed to. Say goodbye to the traditional group stage and say hello to a single, integrated 36-team league stage.
What does this mean for you, the fan? Essentially, all the qualified teams will compete in one large league, creating a more inclusive and dynamic competition. Each team will play eight matches, facing eight different opponents.
Here’s what you can expect from the new format:
- More Variety: Instead of facing the same three teams in the group stage, your favourite club will face eight different teams. This ensures a wider array of match-ups and exciting clashes between top European sides earlier in the competition.
- Fairer Competition: The new format aims to introduce better competitive balance. Teams are expected to play against others of similar competitive level, thus making each game more evenly contested.
- Path to Knockouts: The top 8 teams from this league will advance automatically to the Round of 16. Teams placed 9th to 24th will enter a play-off round to fight for the remaining spots in the knockout phase.
With these changes, the Champions League is poised to deliver even more breathtaking moments.
Key Dates and Venues
The journey to the Allianz Arena in Munich, where the final will be held on 31st May, is packed with excitement. The tournament kicks off on 17th September, following the draw on 29th August. Teams will battle through to 29th January, when the league stage concludes.
The knockout rounds are set to begin in February, with the round of 16. Each stage will be a test of skill, strategy, and endurance as teams vie for a spot in the final. The iconic Allianz Arena, known for its electrifying atmosphere, will be a fitting venue to crown the continental champions.
Mark your calendars and brace yourself for a season of breathtaking football!
Who Are The Favourites?
After an impressive 2023/24 campaign, Real Madrid will go down as one of the favourites for next year’s Champions League, but take a look at the latest Champions League odds to see who the bookies have backed to compete with the Spanish giants.
Manchester City
It’s no surprise that the bookies have Manchester City down as favourites for this year’s Champions League. An impressive Premier League campaign, alongside their treble-winning season the year prior, will make them one of the teams to beat in this year’s tournament. Pep Guardiola’s men will be looking to improve on this season’s disappointing Champions League run where they were knocked out by Real Madrid in the semi-finals.
Real Madrid
Real Madrid are a team that are no strangers to European silverware. The Spanish side are the most successful team in Champions League history and are once again poised to be a dominant force in the 2024/25 season. Having secured their 15th Champions League trophy with a decisive 2-0 victory over Dortmund at Wembley, their legacy of excellence continues. Madrid have a squad full of exciting talent in every position on the pitch, and with the recent addition of Kylian Mbappe, it’s hard to see any team stopping them from securing their 16th trophy. Carlo Ancelotti has the perfect mixture of experienced players, who know how to win a game, and exciting youngsters who have a point to prove to the footballing world. Will anyone be able to stop them?
Arsenal
The Gunners, with their rich history and dynamic style, are once again aiming to make their mark in the Champions League. Under the strategic guidance of Mikel Arteta, Arsenal have blended youthful exuberance with experienced campaigners. Key players like Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Martin Ødegaard will be expected to shine and guide their team to glory.
Following some disappointment in recent domestic seasons, Arsenal will be keen to take that final step and win some silverware for the club. The Emirates Stadium will undoubtedly be buzzing as the North London side set their sights on the Champions League trophy.
Liverpool
Historically one of the most successful clubs in European football, Liverpool’s performances in the Champions League are always keenly anticipated. With a rich legacy that includes six Champions League titles, the Reds have an almost unparalleled pedigree in continental competitions. However, with Jurgen Klopp departing from the club, pundits are unsure how the Merseyside club will perform under new management. Could Arne Slot hit the ground running and bring home some silverware in his first season? It’s a very big ask for the Dutchman, but stranger things have happened!
Barcelona
After seeing their domestic rivals win yet another Champions League title, Barcelona will be heading into the 2024/25 Champions League season with a point to prove. The Catalan giants, famed for their tiki-taka style and youth academy, La Masia, will look to reclaim their position at the pinnacle of European football. Similarly to Liverpool, the club have recently announced that they will be parting ways with their manager and bringing in a new boss. German manager, Hansi Flick, will be managing the team in their next campaign. Flick will take over a mixture of emerging talent and experienced players, including stars like Robert Lewandowski who will be wanting to end his European career on a high.
Players to Watch
The Champions League isn’t just a stage for established superstars; it’s also a springboard for emerging talent. In the 2024/25 season, several young players are poised to make a splash. Let’s take a look at some players you should keep an eye on.
Endrick
Despite his young age, Endrick has already shown flashes of brilliance at the top level for his national team, Brazil. The 17-year-old was signed by Real Madrid for a whopping €60 million this summer. The young Brazilian superstar has the potential to light up the tournament with his lightning pace and deadly finishing.
Jamal Musiala
Musiala, just 21, has been a revelation in the Bundesliga. His skill set includes dribbling, vision, and a knack for scoring crucial goals, making him a must-watch in this year’s Champions League. A strong Euro 2024 campaign with Germany could help catapult the youngster to the next level.
Lamine Yamal
Despite his young age, Lamine Yamal has already shown glimpses of his prodigious talent. As Barcelona continue to nurture their next generation, Yamal is poised to be at the forefront. He combines electrifying pace with technical brilliance, making him a potent threat on the wings. Pay attention to his dribbling skills and capacity to turn defenders inside out; it’s these qualities that make him one of the most exciting young prospects in European football.
One thing is for sure, next year’s Champions League is set to deliver another exciting tournament. Who do you think has got what it takes to lift the trophy?
