Champions League 2024/25: Who Will Win the Trophy?
Champions League 2024-25 introduced a new format, featuring 36 teams for the first time without separate groups. All teams played eight matches each against different opponents. At the end of the league stage, 24 teams made it to the next stage, and 12 teams were eliminated. All big names are still in the competition but only one team will get a chance to win the trophy.
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UCL 2024-25 campaign saw some big names struggling to qualify for the next stage. Liverpool, Barcelona, Arsenal, Inter Milan, Atletico Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, Lille and Aston Villa were the teams that booked an automatic place in the last 16. Other big clubs like Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Manchester City, PSG, AC Milan and others have to go through a playoff round. This has made the competition more interesting. Let’s look at the clubs who could lift the trophy this time.
High-flying Liverpool
Arne Slot’s Liverpool have made a glorious start to the 2024-25 campaign. After half a season, the Reds are sitting at the top of the league table. This is true not only for the domestic league but also for the UCL table. After eight games, Liverpool lost just once and had the most wins (7). They are a different team this season. Slot’s team has an odd of 9/2 and they might add another European title to their trophy cabinet.
Champions League: Barcelona’s young brigade
Another club that has a chance to win the UCL is Barcelona. Hansi Flick’s side have played quality attacking football. They ended the group stage with the most number of goals. Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha led the attack. The likes of Lamine Yamal and Pedri have added a different flare to this side. Barcelona have scored a lot of goals recently. A squad full of young players has odds of 6/1 to win the UCL.
Arsenal’s hunt for European title
Mikel Arteta will look to create history by winning the Champions League. However, it won’t be easy for them to win their first continental title. The Gunners ended the league phase in third place. Their odds lie around 13/2, making them one of the favorites to win the trophy.
Bayern Munich
The German giants always head into the competition as one of the favorites. They have a strong team but are lacking a bit of inconsistency. However, there is still a chance that Bayern Munich can get their season back on track and win the trophy. They have odds of 15/2.
Can Real Madrid defend their UCL title?
Real Madrid are not having a good season. Injuries in the backline have led to a mixed season for Ancelotti’s men. They failed to finish in the top eight and will be in action against Manchester City. These two teams are genuine contenders but only one team will make it to the knockouts. This is a very interesting tie as two of the favorites at the start of the season are meeting so early.
PSG, Inter, Atletico Madrid, and others are too in the race but the above-mentioned teams have a superior chance.
