Champions League 2025-26: Favourites and Players to Watch
The Champions League league phase is underway as PSG chase a third straight title while five English clubs challenge for the trophy.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- The Champions League season has returned with the final scheduled in Madrid next June.
- Paris St-Germain aim for a third consecutive title amid strong English opposition.
- Arsenal lead Opta's win probability table at 20.4% as tournament favourites.
- Key players to watch include Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane, and Lamine Yamal.
European club football's premier tournament is back in action, with the ultimate destination set for the final in Madrid on June 5 next year. As the league phase gets underway, clubs across Europe begin their long journey toward continental glory.
Defending champions Paris St-Germain enter the campaign aiming to secure their third consecutive title, a feat not accomplished since Real Madrid's dominant run between 2015 and 2018. However, five Premier League teams stand in their way, with Arsenal leading the charge as tournament favourites following their runner-up finish last term.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
BBC Sport caught up with football experts Julien Laurens and Guillem Balague to break down the contenders, analyze key statistics, and preview what lies ahead. Fans can also access comprehensive highlights across BBC platforms, including BBC iPlayer, the BBC Sport app, and a dedicated Match of the Day broadcast on BBC One.
Several standout players have been highlighted as ones to watch this season. Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham enters a crucial campaign in the number 10 role, while Lens defender Ismaelo Ganiou, Roma striker Donyell Malen, Bayern Munich's Harry Kane, and Barcelona teenage sensation Lamine Yamal are all expected to shine.
"I think they'll reach at least the semi-final, but I think going for three in a row is tough. With PSG's irregular start to the season we are seeing how difficult it is to maintain the level."
Julien Laurens
The expanded league phase format in the Champions League introduces a more complex tactical landscape, forcing managers to balance domestic commitments with demanding European fixtures. Teams often use the initial stage for experimentation before the knockout rounds demand peak performance from January onward.
According to Opta's statistical models, Arsenal are the overall favourites at 20.4%, closely followed by Bayern Munich at 20%. Manchester City occupy third place with 12.7%, while PSG's chances of a historic third consecutive title stand at 7.3%.
Source: BBC Sport
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