Champions League 2025-26: Experts Predictions And Key Players To Watch

The Uefa Champions League roars back into action, igniting the passions of football fans across the globe. As 36 teams embark on this season's journey, the burning question is: who will be crowned champions at the Puskas Arena in Budapest next May? Among the contenders are six English teams, marking a record number for any single nation in the competition.

With 189 matches on the horizon, including the grand finale, BBC Sport's panel of experts—pundits, commentators, and journalists—weigh in on who they believe will lift the coveted trophy. They also assess the prospects of Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur, predicting which English club will advance the furthest. Furthermore, they identify potential surprise packages and highlight the players they are most eager to witness on the Champions League stage.

Liverpool: The Experts' Favorite

Several BBC Sport's experts have thrown their weight behind Liverpool, citing their summer strengthening and strategic player acquisitions. Phil Mcnulty, BBC's chief football writer, believes Liverpool's bolstered squad makes them prime contenders. Sami Mokbel, BBC's senior football correspondent, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing Liverpool's dominant Premier League form.

Former Germany midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger also highlights Liverpool's squad depth, and the Anfield factor, while John Murray, BBC Radio 5 Live football correspondent, points to their significant investment in new players and retention of key personnel as reasons for their favor.

Real Madrid and PSG: The Other Top Contenders

Despite the strong support for Liverpool, Real Madrid and Paris St-Germain remain formidable contenders. Steve Wilson, Match of the Day commentator, tips Real Madrid, while former England captain Steph Houghton and former Scotland winger Pat Nevin back PSG. Guillem Balague, Spanish football expert, believes PSG's strategic approach and top-tier players position them for success.

Barcelona and Arsenal: The Dark Horses

Barcelona and Arsenal emerge as potential dark horses. BBC Champions League analyst Stephen Warnock and former Arsenal defender Matt Upson favor Barcelona, recognizing their young team's growth and experience. Former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott believes Arsenal's strengthened squad, particularly the addition of Viktor Gyokeres, could propel them to victory.

English Clubs: Who Will Go Furthest?

The experts also delve into which English club will progress furthest in the competition. While Liverpool receives considerable support, Arsenal and Manchester City are also acknowledged for their potential. Rory Smith tips Manchester City, while Nedum Onuoha leans towards Arsenal, citing their semi-final appearance last season.

Surprise Packages and Key Players

Looking beyond the usual suspects, the experts identify potential surprise packages. Thomas Hitzlsperger highlights Athletic Bilbao and Bodo/Glimt, while Steve Wilson favors Juventus. Nicky Bandini suggests Galatasaray, while John Murray, Phil Mcnulty, Sami Mokbel, Steph Houghton, and Matt Upson see Napoli as a team to watch.

Regarding key players, Lamine Yamal garners significant attention, with Phil McNulty, Matt Upson, John Murray, Sami Mokbel, Steph Houghton, and Nicky Bandini all eager to witness his performances. Rory Smith mentions Nico Williams and Edon Zhegrova, while Pat Nevin highlights Estevao Willian. Nedum Onuoha picks Dean Huijsen, Theo Walcott eyes Eberechi Eze, and Steve Wilson names Nick Woltemade.

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