With live coverage from The Athletic, the 2026-27 Champions League draw is unfolding, marking the third season of the new ‘Swiss League’ format.
New Format, Familiar Contenders
This year, 36 clubs will enter a single table, each playing eight games. However, only a few are genuine contenders for the title in Madrid next June. The main questions are:
- Can PSG win a third consecutive championship?
- Will Arsenal achieve their first European victory?
- Can Barcelona reach the final for the first time since 2015?
We provide a subjective ranking of all clubs, from least to most likely to clinch the trophy.
Challengers and Underdogs
36. Sabah
Established in 2017, Sabah is only the second Azerbaijani team to qualify after defeating Hapoel Be’er Sheva. Despite their domestic triumphs, they remain underdogs in this tournament.
35. Slovan Bratislava
Coached by Yaya Toure, Slovan secured their spot through an extra-time victory over Celje. Despite strong domestic performances, their last Champions League outing was disappointing.
34. Viking
Viking broke through with a surprise title win, currently competing at the top again. Zlatko Tripic’s exceptional form is key to their campaign.
33. LASK
LASK’s comeback against Celtic was historic. Led by manager Dietmar Kuhbauer, they hope for an impressive run with a dynamic squad.
32. AEK Athens
AEK secured their place with a win over Levski Sofia. Luka Jovic and Lovro Majer bring experience to their lineup.
Mid-Tier Teams Making a Push
31. Slavia Prague
Slavia, playing a physical style under Jindrich Trpisovsky, struggled in past tournaments. They aim for an improbable ascent against top clubs.
30. Fenerbahce
With heavy investments paying off, Fenerbahce boasts talents like Vedat Muriqi and Romelu Lukaku. They achieved a significant win over Lyon in qualifiers.
29. Stuttgart
Under coach Sebastian Hoeness, Stuttgart transformed since 2023. Retaining key players allows potential progression beyond previous limitations.
28. Galatasaray
Victor Osimhen’s prowess in scoring is their highlight. However, inconsistency plagues the team, as evidenced by their rocky path to qualification.
27. Lens
After a stellar Ligue 1 season, Lens experienced key departures, leaving their Champions League ambitions uncertain.
26. Feyenoord
Historically strong in Europe, Feyenoord faces a decline, reflected in underperformance in recent Eredivisie seasons.
Competitive Teams Poised for Surprises
25. Shakhtar Donetsk
Competing from a temporary home in London, Shakhtar proudly assembles Brazilian talent, hoping to surprise with flair in Europe.
24. Bodo/Glimt
Bodo/Glimt impressed last season by reaching the knockouts, defeating clubs like Inter and Manchester City. Their form remains strong.
23. Villarreal
Villarreal seeks to redeem themselves after last season’s poor showing, despite their impressive domestic performances.
22. Real Betis
Back after 21 years, Real Betis, under Manuel Pellegrini, hopes to leverage the talents of players like Antony and Troy Parrott for success.
21. Club Brugge
Known for discovering talents, Brugge’s resilience is tested after losing key players, yet new prospects could spark unexpected victories.
Europe’s Strong Contenders
20. Lille
While reliant on an aging Olivier Giroud, Lille’s young midfield previously thrived. Ayyoub Bouaddi’s departure marks a challenging path ahead.
19. Sporting CP
Surprising quarter-finalists last season, Sporting CP made strategic signings, though repeating past success remains daunting.
18. PSV
PSV dominated Eredivisie but faced Champions League setbacks. The loss of Ismael Saibari to Bayern adds to their difficulties.
17. RB Leipzig
RB Leipzig, under new leadership with Martin Demichelis, faced significant player changes. Strengthening their squad is crucial.
16. Porto
Porto, champions of Portugal, face a challenge due to key injuries. Francesco Farioli’s dynamic style keeps them competitive.
Top-Ranked Teams and Their Prospects
15. Aston Villa
Under Unai Emery, Villa’s squad faces transitions. Balancing Premier League commitments with European ambitions tests their depth.
14. Como
Billionaire-backed, Como stunned Serie A with their top-four finish. Retaining talent like Nico Paz offers hope for an influential campaign.
13. Borussia Dortmund
Despite domestic setbacks, Dortmund’s noteworthy European history makes them formidable. Recent roster changes could fuel advancement.
12. Napoli
Although consistent in Serie A, Napoli lacks a substantial European record. With new leadership, they aim to compensate in the Champions League.
11. Roma
Roma’s unpredictable nature leaves possibilities open. Donyell Malen’s exceptional form might drive them to unexpected heights.
10. Manchester United
Returning to Champions League competitions brings uncertainties for Manchester United. Michael Carrick’s remodelled squad aims for success beyond domestic struggles.
9. Atletico Madrid
Under Diego Simeone, Atletico remains steadfast contenders. The team adapts to key player absences, still driving strong performances.
8. Liverpool
Liverpool’s potential is overshadowed by early challenges. Management changes and recruitment strategies dictate their future trajectory.
7. Inter
Inter’s squad includes key English additions, complementing Lautaro Martinez. Retaining players makes them strong European prospects.
6. Manchester City
Adjustments post-Guardiola mean uncertainty for City. New leadership and a revamped squad present both opportunities and risks.
5. Real Madrid
Real Madrid consistently ranks as a top contender. With a balanced squad and experienced recruits, they are poised for another successful run.
4. Barcelona
Spanish champions Barcelona focus on European glory, leveraging experienced players in key positions for a potential deep run.
3. Bayern Munich
With Harry Kane and a talented supporting cast, Bayern’s capabilities signal a possible championship season under Vincent Kompany’s guidance.
2. Arsenal
Arsenal’s near-victory last year fuels their drive. A strong squad poised to challenge existing heavyweights makes them a formidable opponent.
1. Paris Saint-Germain
Seeking a rare third consecutive win, PSG’s strategic player management and skilled lineup, under Luis Enrique, sustains title hopes.
Leave a Reply