The Road to Budapest Begins – Who Will Be Crowned Champions of Europe?
The wait is over. On Tuesday night the Champions League roars back to life — and for the second season running under the revamped league format. Eight frantic matchdays will again separate pretenders from contenders: the top eight teams from the league phase go straight into the round of 16, while those finishing 9–24 must battle through a high-stakes play-in — a do-or-die “pre-round of 16” — to earn their spot in the knockout draw after the winter break. From there, the road to Budapest begins – a journey filled with glory, heartbreak, and unforgettable nights under the floodlights.
This year’s competition feels more unpredictable than ever. Giants are clashing, new stars are rising, and the throne of Europe is up for grabs. But who are the true contenders to lift the trophy?
Barcelona – brilliance and beauty
The bookmakers’ favorite. With Hansi Flick orchestrating from the touchline and teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal dazzling on the pitch, Barcelona look like a team reborn. Tactical discipline meets sheer artistry – and the Catalans believe this could finally be their season to return to the very top.
PSG – the champions to beat
Last season, Paris Saint-Germain didn’t just win the final – they demolished Inter 5–0. A performance for the ages. Gone are the days of a superstar-filled “galáctico” squad. Today’s PSG is forged in the French talent factory, a young, fearless side ready to defend their crown. Can they do it again?
Liverpool – fueled by history
The Reds were knocked out by PSG last season, but only after dominating the league stage with seven wins from eight. Now, as reigning Premier League champions and with four wins out of four to start their domestic campaign, Arne Slot’s side is brimming with confidence. With six Champions League trophies already to their name – the last in 2019 – Anfield dreams of European glory once more.
Real Madrid – kings of Europe
Fifteen titles. No one comes close. Real Madrid don’t just play in the Champions League – they own it. And with Kylian Mbappé in white, Madrid have the firepower to strike fear into any opponent. Count them out at your peril.
Arsenal – knocking on the door
Mikel Arteta has transformed Arsenal step by step, turning them into genuine contenders both in England and abroad. After pushing PSG to the limit last season and strengthening with stars like Viktor Gyökeres, Martín Zubimendi, and Eberechi Eze, the Gunners are hungry. Could this be the season Arsenal finally claim their very first Champions League crown?
Manchester City – Pep’s eternal quest
Manchester City’s start to the season has been uneven, but with Pep Guardiola at the helm, they are always dangerous. Erling Haaland remains the most ruthless striker in the game, while Ballon d’Or winner Rodri controls the midfield like few others in the world. City crave European dominance – and have the weapons to achieve it.
Bayern Munich – the German machine
Never count out Bayern. With six Champions League titles already in their history and Harry Kane leading the line, the Bavarians are once again ready to roll over anyone in their path. Champions in 2020, and built to contend again – the German juggernaut is alive and well.
Dark horses in the shadows
Chelsea, Inter (last year’s finalists), Juventus, Napoli, Atlético Madrid – they may not be favorites, but the beauty of the Champions League is its unpredictability. One magical run, one historic upset, and a dark horse can become legend.
The stage is set
Now, the greatest show in football begins. Eight matchdays of drama, followed by a knockout stage where legends are made and dreams are shattered. From Barcelona’s artistry to Madrid’s dynasty, from Liverpool’s passion to PSG’s defense of the crown – every night will carry the weight of history.
The road to Budapest starts here. Buckle up. Champions League nights are back. And as always – you’ll be following all the drama with the Forza Football app.