Top 10 Favorites to Win the UEFA Champions League 2025/2026

Top 10 Favorites to Win the UEFA Champions League 2025/2026 highlights the elite clubs poised to battle for Europe’s most prestigious football trophy. With the new season rapidly approaching, excitement is building around the teams that have the talent, tactical mastery, and squad depth to lift the coveted Champions League trophy. From Real Madrid’s new era under Xabi Alonso and the star power of Kylian Mbappé, to Manchester City’s tactical brilliance despite losing Kevin De Bruyne, the competition promises thrilling matches and unforgettable moments. PSG enters the season as defending champions, ready to prove their dominance, while Arsenal’s rise, bolstered by the addition of Viktor Gyökeres, signals their intent to challenge Europe’s giants.

Bayern Munich’s renewed strength, Liverpool’s high-intensity style, and Barcelona’s blend of youth and experience add further intrigue to the race. Inter Milan, Atletico Madrid, and Juventus round out the list of favorites, each bringing unique qualities and ambitions. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan, a fantasy football enthusiast, or a casual observer, this comprehensive breakdown offers insights into the teams most likely to make a deep run and compete for continental glory. Stay ahead of the game and discover which clubs are set to define the 2025/2026 Champions League season.

10. Juventus (Italy)

After years of inconsistency and a painful absence from European competition, Juventus have returned to the Champions League with renewed ambition. The club has undergone serious restructuring over the past two seasons, bringing in a new manager and focusing on restoring its defensive identity and tactical discipline. With several shrewd summer signings, including a dynamic central midfielder and a pacey winger, the Old Lady looks more balanced and resilient than before.

What makes Juventus a dangerous underdog is their experience and mentality in knockout football. Their backline is anchored by veterans, while the midfield blends hard work with creativity. Up front, they possess the firepower to punish opponents on the counter. The hunger to prove they still belong among Europe’s elite will drive them forward. While they may not be the flashiest team in the competition, their structure, motivation, and historical pedigree can carry them far. If they get favorable draws and build early momentum, Juventus could very well be this season’s surprise package. Underestimating them would be a mistake — they are on a mission to restore their place at the top of European football, and that makes them a real threat in the 2025/26 campaign.

9. Atletico Madrid (Spain)

Atletico Madrid remain one of Europe’s most stubborn and dangerous sides, especially in knockout competitions. Under Diego Simeone, their tactical identity is clear: aggressive pressing, disciplined defending, and ruthless efficiency in attack. For the 2025/26 season, Atleti have reinforced their midfield and added depth in wide areas, giving them more flexibility and balance than in recent years.

Though they may not always be favorites in open-play statistics, their defensive solidity and resilience make them an opponent no one wants to face. They’re known for turning Champions League ties into psychological wars — frustrating even the most fluid attacking teams. João Félix’s return to form, along with the addition of a powerful forward in the summer, means Atletico now have more cutting edge in the final third.

Historically, Atletico has come heartbreakingly close to winning the UCL — twice runners-up in the last decade. That unfinished business still lingers, and Simeone’s warriors carry that hunger into every campaign. If they avoid major injuries and build momentum early in the group stage, don’t be surprised if Atletico grind their way deep into the tournament. They might not dominate possession, but they dominate moments — and in the Champions League, moments win trophies.

8. Liverpool (England)

Liverpool’s return to the Champions League has been met with enthusiasm from fans and fear from rivals. After a season in the Europa League, Jürgen Klopp’s side is back with a vengeance. Over the summer, they’ve made key upgrades in midfield, adding both creativity and defensive stability to support their high-octane style. The squad has a fresh look, combining youth energy with experienced leadership.

The front line remains terrifying, with Mohamed Salah still sharp and young talents like Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz growing into their roles. At Anfield, Liverpool are nearly unbeatable — the atmosphere alone creates a fortress that can unnerve even Europe’s finest. Klopp’s gegenpressing style also thrives in high-stakes UCL ties, especially when the tempo and chaos benefit Liverpool’s athleticism and directness.

While they may not be ranked as highly as others due to last season’s European absence, the Reds are one of the most unpredictable dark horses. Few teams can turn momentum as fast or score flurries of goals in short spans like Liverpool. If their defense holds up and injuries stay minimal, Liverpool could absolutely challenge for a seventh European crown. They’re back, reloaded, and hungry to conquer Europe once more.

7. Inter Milan (Italy)

Inter Milan have quietly built one of the most well-drilled and tactically consistent teams in Europe. Their 2023 Champions League final appearance was no fluke — this team knows how to play knockout football. Under Simone Inzaghi, Inter’s compact structure, fluid wing-play, and clinical counterattacks make them one of the most dangerous Italian sides in recent memory.

For the 2025/26 season, Inter have further bolstered their squad with depth at full-back and more attacking firepower. Their midfield trio remains a strength, capable of both dictating tempo and shielding the defense. Lautaro Martínez leads the line with sharpness and maturity, while the backline continues to function like a well-oiled machine — a mix of aggression, discipline, and tactical awareness.

What sets Inter apart is their ability to adapt during matches. Inzaghi is unafraid to make bold tactical tweaks that shift the momentum of tight games. They might not dominate headlines like their English or Spanish rivals, but Inter’s ability to grind results and absorb pressure makes them a nightmare in knockout stages. Their recent experience in deep UCL runs only adds to their edge. Write them off at your peril — Inter Milan are more than ready to lift the trophy this time around.

6. Barcelona (Spain)

Barcelona enter the 2025/26 season with cautious optimism. After years of financial turbulence and rebuilding, the club finally looks balanced again — both on the pitch and off. Under Xavi Hernandez, Barça have crafted a youthful, vibrant team blending La Masia products with key experienced signings. Their playing style, rooted in possession and positional excellence, has matured into a fluid and effective system.

This summer, Barcelona added smart reinforcements in midfield and defense, giving them more stability in big matches. Players like Pedri, Gavi, and Lamine Yamal continue to blossom, while seasoned leaders like Lewandowski and Ter Stegen bring calmness and experience. Flick’s tactical evolution, including more pragmatic decisions in tough away games, shows the club is learning from past Champions League disappointments.

Although not seen as the outright favorite, Barcelona’s growth trajectory makes them a strong contender. Their group-stage performance will be key, but if they advance to the knockouts with confidence, their technical superiority and squad chemistry could take them far. For fans, the dream of returning to European dominance feels closer than ever. If the young core clicks at the right time, this could be the season Barcelona reclaims their place among the giants of Europe.

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5. Paris Saint-Germain (France)

Paris Saint-Germain finally broke their Champions League curse in 2024/25, lifting the coveted trophy for the first time in club history. That historic win has transformed the team’s mentality — they are no longer chasing respect; they’ve earned it. Now, under Luis Enrique, PSG enters the 2025/26 season not as hopeful contenders but as defending champions.

What makes this version of PSG different is their tactical evolution. Without Kylian Mbappé, the squad has become more balanced and system-oriented. The focus is now on collective strength rather than individual brilliance. Young talents like Warren Zaïre-Emery and Bradley Barcola have stepped up, while the midfield and defense have grown into one of the most disciplined units in Europe.

Having shaken off the label of “eternal chokers,” PSG now possess the confidence of winners. The pressure has shifted from proving themselves to defending their crown, and they look capable of doing just that. Their Champions League win wasn’t a fluke — it was the product of years of evolution, smart recruitment, and finally, maturity. With the experience of a title run under their belt and a motivated, cohesive squad, PSG will be one of the most feared teams once again in 2025/26. They’ve arrived — and they’re not done yet.

4. Arsenal (England)

Arsenal’s rise in European football continues with real momentum heading into the 2025/26 season. After a strong domestic campaign and an improved showing in the Champions League last year, Mikel Arteta’s team looks ready to mount a serious challenge for the title. The addition of Viktor Gyökeres this summer adds a powerful, clinical presence up front — a missing piece in their puzzle.

What sets Arsenal apart is the tactical maturity Arteta has instilled. They can dominate possession, press high, and control transitions with incredible balance. The midfield trio of Rice, Ødegaard, and Havertz offers a blend of steel, creativity, and movement, while the defense has grown into one of the most consistent in Europe. Players like Bukayo Saka and Martinelli add width and unpredictability, creating constant danger on the flanks.

Now entering back-to-back Champions League seasons, Arsenal no longer seem like newcomers. They’ve built European experience and learned hard lessons from past exits. Their squad depth allows for rotation without losing quality, which is key in the long campaign ahead. If they manage their group well and stay injury-free, Arsenal have the quality, hunger, and tactical clarity to go deep — maybe even all the way to the final. They’re no longer outsiders. They’re contenders.

3. Bayern Munich (Germany)

Bayern Munich are entering the 2025/26 season with a chip on their shoulder. After falling short in previous campaigns, the German giants have retooled and reloaded. Harry Kane continues to lead the line with world-class finishing and leadership, and Bayern have added critical reinforcements in midfield and defense, bringing back that spine of dominance they’ve historically relied on.

What makes Bayern dangerous this year is their tactical versatility. They can press high, play with possession, or drop deep and counter — all with ruthless efficiency. Their full-backs add width and attacking overloads, while their midfield now includes both creativity and physicality. The mix of veteran winners and hungry younger talent ensures a balanced and motivated dressing room.

The club also benefits from stability and a clear vision. With key players healthy and firing, Bayern are poised to remind Europe why they’re a permanent fixture among the continent’s elite. They’ve won the Champions League six times, and that pedigree always gives them an edge in the knockouts. If Kane hits top form and the backline stays organized, Bayern could easily power their way to the final stages. They’ve had their reset — now it’s time to reclaim their spot at the top.

2. Manchester City (England)

Manchester City enter the 2025/26 season still brimming with talent, structure, and ambition — but for the first time in years, they have genuine questions to answer. Kevin De Bruyne’s departure leaves a major creative void, but Pep Guardiola has never been one to rely on a single player. With Phil Foden stepping into the spotlight and new midfield talent added this summer, City remain a formidable machine.

The defending Premier League champions still possess Erling Haaland, who continues to terrorize defenses with his physicality and finishing. Rodri anchors the midfield, and their backline remains among the most tactically intelligent in Europe. The team’s greatest strength lies in its system — every player understands their role and executes it to near-perfection, making City a consistent force in tight matches.

Despite some squad changes, City’s experience, especially in knockout football, gives them a crucial advantage. Guardiola’s side knows how to manage games, handle pressure, and dominate possession for 90 minutes. They’ll need to adjust without De Bruyne, but if history has taught us anything, it’s that City always adapt. They may no longer be the clear top favorite, but they’re still right at the center of any Champions League conversation — and rightly so.

1. Real Madrid (Spain)

Real Madrid enter the 2025/26 season with the perfect combination of legacy, youth, and elite talent. With Xabi Alonso now at the helm, Los Blancos have found fresh energy and tactical nuance to go with their always-powerful squad. The summer addition of Kylian Mbappé finally completes their dream front line, with Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Jr. forming perhaps the most dangerous attacking trio in world football.

But Madrid are not just about flair — they have depth, balance, and a winning mentality. The midfield is stacked with both young dynamos and experienced controllers. In defense, Éder Militão and Antonio Rüdiger provide stability, while Thibaut Courtois remains a game-changing presence in goal. Alonso has already shown signs of blending attacking freedom with tactical discipline, a balance that could take this team to new heights.

More importantly, Real Madrid know how to win this tournament. With 15 European Cups already in the cabinet, the club thrives on Champions League pressure like no other. The culture, the fans, the Bernabéu — everything is built for glory. With their squad peaking and momentum in their favor, Madrid are not just favorites. They are the team everyone else wants to avoid. Another Champions League title could be just months away.

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