Just as the final whistle blew on the Champions League season, with Paris Saint-Germain clinching their first-ever title by defeating Inter 5-0, thoughts are already turning to the next campaign. While all participants for the league phase are not yet confirmed, history shows that the eventual winners often come from clubs that automatically qualify through their domestic league performance, rather than those entering via playoffs.
Despite the relatively unexpected final between PSG and Inter in 2024-25, expectations remain high for English and Spanish clubs to dominate the latter stages next season. The summer transfer window is already buzzing with activity: Trent Alexander-Arnold is reportedly moving from Real Madrid to Liverpool, Rayan Cherki is linked with Manchester City, Florian Wirtz is also rumored to join Liverpool, and Xabi Alonso`s arrival at the helm of Real Madrid introduces many uncertainties this summer. The upcoming Club World Cup will provide an early peek at some of the teams set to compete in the Champions League, offering clues about potential contenders. Let`s assess who should be considered favorites for the next edition and why.
Incomplete: Real Madrid
The potential signing of Alexander-Arnold could address one of Madrid`s main challenges this past season: creating chances. However, it might not fully resolve their structural balance issues. Xabi Alonso faces a significant task in determining how to prevent Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior from occupying similar attacking zones. The midfield also needs attention, and further new signings are likely. Given these factors, it`s difficult to predict Real Madrid`s form next season and place them among the absolute top contenders for the UCL crown right away. Based on individual talent, they certainly have the potential to come together and become world-beaters. However, they first need to demonstrate that they are still the formidable Real Madrid before being listed among the top five favorites.
5. Liverpool
With Alexander-Arnold`s reported departure, Liverpool faces questions regarding their defense. However, these concerns seem less daunting after Mohamed Salah`s stellar performance last season. With Florian Wirtz reportedly close to joining and Jeremie Frimpong already added, the Reds could have enough incoming talent not only to maintain their current level but potentially improve. After winning the Premier League in Arne Slot`s first season, expectations will be high for his second. With the squad now familiar with his tactical approach, Liverpool is expected to be a strong contender once more. Their squad depth across multiple competitions and promising academy talent also suggest potential progress from younger players.
4. Arsenal
Defensively, Arsenal possesses a significantly higher baseline compared to many global teams. However, they must make strides offensively to consistently match other elite sides. This past season, the Gunners clearly needed a striker to elevate their attack, and this summer might be the time they address this. Even without a top-tier striker, as long as Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka remain fit, Arsenal possesses the quality to compete.
3. Barcelona
Lamine Yamal is still only 17 years old. His continued performance at his current level alone could propel Barcelona back into contention for a final spot next season, and it`s remarkable to consider that Yamal is expected to improve further as he matures. Combined with Pedri in midfield and Raphinha playing at a high level, Barcelona`s attack appears promising. Even if Robert Lewandowski`s age starts to show, Ferran Torres has demonstrated he can lead the line effectively. Marc Andre Ter-Stegen`s return in goal after missing much of the season due to injury will also strengthen the defense. Hansi Flick`s team will likely need further defensive reinforcements, but considering Barcelona`s performance this season, even a slight defensive improvement next campaign could make them a serious threat.
2. Paris Saint-Germain
Having just secured their historic first Champions League title, PSG has every reason to be considered among the favorites to lift the trophy again next season. This is a notably young squad, indicating that even after their recent triumph, PSG is poised to be a dominant force for years ahead. Players like Joao Neves, Desire Doue, Bradley Barcola, Nuno Mendes, Willian Pacho, Vitinha, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are all 25 or younger and have gained invaluable experience in high-stakes matches under Luis Enrique. While their rivals will undoubtedly strengthen, even if PSG opts against adding another superstar this summer, their current squad is formidable.
1. Manchester City
This past season marked Manchester City`s least successful under Pep Guardiola in the Premier League, yet they still managed a top-four finish to qualify for the next Champions League. With Rodri fit again and potential reinforcements on the horizon, there is no reason to anticipate anything less than a return to their peak form, which is a daunting prospect for their opponents. Europe was perhaps spared from City`s full might this season, but they are unlikely to remain below their standard for long and will be a major force in the next campaign.
Adrian Whitmore