Europe’s top clubs are preparing for another battle for Champions League glory as the competition returns with Paris Saint-Germain seeking to extend their dominance.
The French side enters the new campaign as the reigning champion and is targeting a third successive Champions League triumph, with the final set for Madrid on June 5 next year.
Can Anyone Stop PSG?
The defending champions will face competition from five English representatives, with Arsenal considered one of the strongest contenders after their runners-up finish last season.
Arsenal will be determined to turn last year’s disappointment into success by going all the way this time.
But the Gunners are not alone in the hunt. The Champions League brings together Europe’s strongest clubs, creating a tournament in which one poor result can dramatically alter a team’s path to the final.
Experts Julien Laurens and Guillem Balague have identified their own favourites, while statistical projections provide another indication of which teams could have the best chance of winning the competition.
Stars Ready for the Spotlight
Beyond the clubs themselves, the tournament will offer another opportunity for Europe’s biggest stars to demonstrate their quality on the biggest stage.
From established Champions League performers to emerging talents, several players are expected to attract attention as the league phase unfolds.
For the favourites, having their leading players fit and in form could prove crucial when the competition reaches the knockout stages.
BBC Announces Extensive Highlights Coverage
Football supporters in the UK will again have access to Champions League highlights through the BBC.
Match highlights from Wednesday fixtures will be available from 22:00 BST on BBC iPlayer, BBC Sport’s website and app. Fans will also be able to watch key moments through the BBC Sport app’s Shorts section.
A dedicated Champions League Match of the Day will follow on BBC One at 22:40.
This week’s schedule also includes an additional Thursday programme on BBC Two at 22:30, featuring highlights from Thursday’s matches. Those highlights will be available online from 22:00.
With the league phase about to begin, Europe’s elite now have their eyes firmly set on Madrid. PSG want another historic title, while Arsenal and the rest of the field are determined to prevent the French champions from extending their reign.
