"No Other Outcome": Who Will Win the 2024 Champions League? Pundits' Predictions
"No Other Outcome" – Who Will Win the 2024 Champions League? Pundits' Predictions
The Champions League is back, and this time it's bigger and more unpredictable than ever. With the competition expanding to 36 teams, football fans worldwide are gearing up for an exhilarating season. Real Madrid, Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Celtic are among the favorites from Britain, but the tournament promises surprises and drama at every turn.
The prestigious tournament kicks off this Tuesday, and already, the talk of who will lift the trophy in Munich next year is heating up. Will the reigning champions, Real Madrid, add to their unparalleled legacy by claiming their 16th European crown? Or will Manchester City, fresh off their domestic successes, finally ascend to the pinnacle of European football once more?
We asked some of BBC Sport's football experts and pundits for their predictions on who will come out on top, which team might shock the footballing world, and which players have the potential to light up the tournament this season.
Who Will Win the 2024 Champions League?
With so many strong contenders, opinions vary among experts. However, there seems to be one consensus: Manchester City. Pep Guardiola's side has dominated English football for several seasons and finally broke through on the European stage in 2023 by winning their first-ever Champions League title. Now, many believe they are poised to go back-to-back.
Former England international Alan Shearer firmly believes City are the team to beat: "No one can match City's depth and the way they play under Guardiola. They’ve conquered the Premier League, and with Erling Haaland leading their attack, I don’t see another outcome. They’re just too strong." But cities are not without competition. Former Manchester United captain Rio Ferdinand backs Real Madrid, known as the kings of Europe, to come out on top again.
"Madrid has the mentality and pedigree in this tournament. Year after year, they find a way, no matter the opposition. Players like Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Júnior will be key this season. I wouldn’t bet against them."
There is also excitement surrounding Arsenal's return to the Champions League. After years of absence, Mikel Arteta’s young and talented squad has reignited hope among Gunners' supporters. Ian Wright, the Arsenal legend, thinks his former club could surprise people: "Arsenal is back where they belong, and I think people are sleeping on how good they can be. They’ve got young players with no fear, and with Declan Rice in the midfield, they’ll give anyone a run for their money."
While the likes of Liverpool and Bayern Munich are always in the mix, Chris Sutton believes that an underdog could emerge this year:
"There’s so much unpredictability with this new format. Aston Villa, for example, has a unique setup under Unai Emery. They could be this season's dark horses."
The Surprise Packages
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Champions League is seeing which team defies expectations. While the usual powerhouses like Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich are favorites, there’s always room for a Cinderella story.
Jermaine Jenas predicts Italian side Napoli could be a surprise contender:
"Napoli was fantastic last season in Serie A and they have the firepower to trouble the best defenses in Europe. Keep an eye on Victor Osimhen – he’s a game-changer."
Another pundit, Robbie Savage, is backing Celtic to make a bigger splash than people anticipate:"Celtic's return to Europe comes with a point to prove. They’ve been dominant domestically, and they’re playing with so much confidence right now. Brendan Rodgers has the experience to take them further than many expect."
Meanwhile, Alex Scott suggests Arsenal could be the surprise of the tournament:
"There’s this energy and belief around the Emirates right now. Arsenal could go further than people think. With the right matchups, a semi-final is not out of the question for them."
Players to Watch
Every Champions League season delivers standout individual performances, and 2024 promises to be no different. While the usual stars like Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, and Robert Lewandowski are expected to shine, several young talents and new faces are ready to grab the spotlight.
Alan Shearer is excited to see how Jude Bellingham fares in his first full season at Real Madrid:"Bellingham is already showing why he’s one of the best midfielders in the world. He’s got maturity beyond his years, and playing for Real Madrid will only elevate him further. I expect him to be one of the best players in this tournament."
Another player creating buzz is Declan Rice. After his summer move to Arsenal, Rio Ferdinand believes Rice can show why he’s worth the hefty price tag:
"Declan has grown immensely over the past few seasons, and now he’s at a club where he can challenge for the biggest trophies. He’s the engine of that Arsenal team, and his leadership will be crucial."
Jermaine Jenas also highlighted Victor Osimhen from Napoli:
"Osimhen is the real deal. His pace, power, and finishing ability make him one of the most feared strikers in Europe. Don’t be surprised if he’s leading the top scorer charts by the end of the season."
Finally, there’s anticipation around Josko Gvardiol, who recently joined Manchester City. Alex Scott is eager to see how he fits into Guardiola’s setup:
"Gvardiol is a fantastic defender, and he’s only going to improve under Guardiola. City’s defense is already rock-solid, and adding him makes them even more formidable."