With the round of sixteen in the Champions League set to commence soon, we look at the teams that have what it takes to win it all. Although many competitive teams head into the knockout round, some will distinguish themselves while others will fall. Here, we see which five teams are ready to win the European trophy.
Honorable mention
Despite being known as one of the top clubs in Europe, Manchester City haven’t looked like themselves this season. Currently fifth in England, many stars have failed to impress this season. Although in recent games they’ve picked things back up, winning the Champions League seems too difficult for them. Although they surely shouldn’t be ruled out, they don’t look quite as dangerous as some of the clubs on this list.
Juventus fans have watched their team at very high points, as well as very low points this season. Every time they play an amazing game it seems as though they’ve put an end to their poor performances. However, they simply continue to disappoint soon after by dropping points against struggling teams. Despite this, at their best, Juventus is a force to be reckoned with. If Andrea Pirlo can unleash the sleeping beat in this side, they could see themselves reaching the finals of the acclaimed tournament in Europe. Only time will tell if Juventus has put an end to their uninspiring performances this season.
5. Atletico Madrid
Atletico Madrid winning the Champions League would have been an idea laughed at this time last season. However, the Colchoneros have been phenomenal since the start of the season. They’re currently first in La Liga above both Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. Star striker Luis Suarez has turned a good team into a great one this season, and the Spaniards could make a run for the title. However, the question has to be asked if this squad can consistently beat top tier clubs.
Diego Simeone‘s squad is at the top of the table because they’ve barely dropped points against any team that isn’t very competitive. However, when faced with European giants they’ve struggled. Against Bayern Munchen then were humbled in a 4-0 loss, and more recently they fell to Real Madrid in a 2-0 loss away from home. As they progress in the Champions League, they’ll be forced to face tougher and tougher opposition, and they may just crumble,
4. Real Madrid
Real Madrid and the Champions League are a love story like no other. They’ve come home with the cup more times than any other, and do not plan on coming home to Madrid without it this Spring. However, they’ve struggled in many games this season without their captain Sergio Ramos. Ramos has been the backbone of this inconsistent side this season. If French striker Karim Benzema can continue his red-hot form, the Merengues can be a very dangerous side.
3. Liverpool
Liverpool will want to reclaim their trophy after losing it this past season to Bayern Munchen. They’ve done well this season, as they’re first in England, however, the Reds are still reasonably vulnerable. Many players including Virgil Van Dijk, Fabinho, and Diego Jota have struggled with injuries this season. However, once their squad is fully healthy, they will be a scary side to face. Filled with depth and hunger to reclaim the title, Liverpool will be a side to beat.
2. Paris Saint Germain
With Kylian Mbappe always improving, and Neymar Jr beginning to get back in form, PSG is a very strong team in Europe. They finished first in their Champions League group despite being drawn with Manchester United and RB Leipzig. PSG continues to be on the hunt for their first Champions League trophy in their history. The Parisians will surely need to bolster their defense due to its vulnerability this season. If, however they manage to patch up their holes defensively, it will be very difficult for any team to compete with them.
1. Bayern Munchen
The Bavarians look just as strong as they were the previous season, if not stronger. They have an overload of talent, and depth to ensure any injuries within the squad create no big issue. They’ve continued to impress in the Champions League and lead in the German domestic league as well. Hansi Flick’s side looks like the team to beat this season and will undoubtedly put on a show this year in Europe.
The Champions League resumes on February 16th, where many will need to prove they belong amongst the best in Europe.