Despite the recent final where Paris Saint-Germain secured their historic first Champions League title with a dominant 5-0 victory over Inter, attention is already shifting to the next season. While not all participating teams are confirmed yet, history shows that the eventual champions often come from clubs that automatically qualify through their domestic leagues, rather than those who navigate playoff rounds.
Although the 2024-25 final between PSG and Inter was somewhat unexpected, the odds for the following season`s title still seem to favor dominance from clubs in England and Spain. The summer transfer window is set to bring significant changes, with reported moves like Trent Alexander-Arnold potentially heading to Liverpool from Real Madrid, Rayan Cherki linked with Manchester City, Florian Wirtz rumored to join Liverpool, and the arrival of Xabi Alonso at the Santiago Bernabeu adding layers of intrigue. The upcoming Club World Cup might offer an early glimpse of some teams featuring in the next Champions League, but let`s evaluate who should be considered the favorites for the next edition and why.
Contenders (Incomplete): Real Madrid
While the rumored addition of Alexander-Arnold could potentially boost Real Madrid`s chance creation, it doesn`t fully solve their issues with tactical balance. Xabi Alonso faces the significant task of finding a system where attacking talents like Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior can operate without occupying the same spaces. There`s also the midfield composition to address, and further new signings are likely expected. Considering these factors, predicting Real Madrid`s form next season and placing them among the absolute top contenders for the UCL trophy is challenging at this stage. On paper, the talent is certainly there for them to become world-beaters, but they need to demonstrate cohesion and performance on the pitch before being definitively listed as a top-five contender.
5. Liverpool
With Alexander-Arnold potentially departing, Liverpool faces their own defensive questions, though Mohamed Salah`s performance last season provides some reassurance. Reports linking Florian Wirtz and the confirmed arrival of Jeremie Frimpong suggest the Reds could add significant talent this summer, potentially allowing them to not only maintain their previous season`s level but also make further improvements. Expectations will be high for Arne Slot`s second season after a solid debut year, but with the squad understanding his playing style, Liverpool will remain firmly among the contenders. Their squad depth and strong academy also mean potential advancements from young players are anticipated.
4. Arsenal
Defensively, Arsenal boasts a very high baseline compared to many teams globally. However, they need to elevate their attacking game to consistently match other top sides. Last season, the need for a new striker capable of taking the team to the next level was apparent, and this summer could be when they finally address that issue. Nevertheless, even without a world-class central forward, as long as key creative players like Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka remain fit, Arsenal possesses the quality to challenge.
3. Barcelona
The emergence of Lamine Yamal, still only 17, is a major factor. Simply maintaining his current impressive level could push Barcelona back into contention for a final spot next season. Even more exciting is the potential for him to improve as he gets older. Combined with Pedri`s talent in midfield and Raphinha`s strong form, Barcelona`s attack is in capable hands. Even if Robert Lewandowski`s effectiveness wanes with age, Ferran Torres has shown he can lead the line effectively. Marc-Andre ter Stegen`s return from injury also significantly strengthens the defense. While Hansi Flick`s team will likely need more defensive additions, considering their performance last season, even a modest improvement defensively in the next campaign could make Barcelona a formidable opponent.
2. Paris Saint-Germain
Having just claimed their first ever Champions League title, there`s compelling reason to consider PSG among the favorites to lift the trophy again next season. This is a remarkably youthful team, suggesting they are built to be a dominant force for years. Key players like Joao Neves, Desire Doue, Bradley Barcola, Nuno Mendes, Willian Pacho, Vitinha, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are all 25 or under and have gained vital experience in high-stakes matches under Luis Enrique. While rivals will undoubtedly strengthen, PSG possesses a formidable squad even without major new signings this summer.
1. Manchester City
What was considered Manchester City`s least dominant season under Pep Guardiola still saw them finish comfortably in the Premier League`s top four, securing Champions League qualification. With the return of key midfielder Rodri and potential reinforcements arriving, a return to their formidable peak form is highly anticipated – a daunting prospect for opponents. Europe might have felt somewhat spared from City`s full power last season, but they are unlikely to stay below their usual standards for long, positioning them as the clear frontrunners.
