The 2024-25 UEFA Champions League (UCL) season will get underway on Tuesday as teams begin their journey in the newly redesigned tournament and Afrosport previews the teams that are the most likely to win the title.
Top favourites Real Madrid
Holders and 15-time winners Real Madrid will begin their defence against German side Stuttgart on Tuesday and will fancy a positive start, particularly after a rather fluctuating beginning to their La Liga title defence.
Los Blancos have won three games in their opening five league games starting with a disappointing 1-1 draw at Mallorca, they however remain top contenders for the money-spinning tournament.
Real Madrid added Kylian Mbappe to a formidable attack that has Ballon d’Or contender Vinicius Junior, as well as Rodrygo and Endrick.
Despite Toni Kroos’ retirement, Real Madrid still has the likes of Jude Bellingham, the vastly experienced Luka Modric, French duo Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde.
With Carlo Ancelotti also in charge, it’s definitely a risk to bet against Real Madrid retaining the UCL crown, particularly considering their prowess in the tournament.
Rejuvenated Barcelona
Last season was one to forget for Barcelona, but under new manager Hansi Flick, they are already a force to reckon with, judging by their progress so far, the Catalan giants have won all five games in La Liga, and they also can rely on Euro 2024 youngster Lamine Yamal, new signing Dani Olmo as well as veteran striker Robert Lewandowski when push comes to shove.
Although they need to remain consistent to stake a claim for Europe’s highly-rated cup competition.
Erling Haaland’s Manchester City
Former winners, Manchester City are also contenders with Erlin Haaland in their fold. The Norwegian has scored nine goals in just four Premier League games this season, while services will come courtesy of Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan and Bernardo Silva. Injuries aside, the Citizens are blessed in all departments, and considering the fact they won a record-breaking fourth Premier League in a row, they will compete on all fronts once again.
They have already won the season-opening Community Shield, beating Manchester United and manager Pep Guardiola will also be out to prove that their UCL triumph in 2022 was no fluke.
