The 2024/25 Champions League season has been a thrilling spectacle, with the introduction of the Swiss-style league format shaking up Europe’s premier competition. This means there are still two more sets of group games to be played throughout January, throwing a spanner in the works of sports betting odds and the shape of the league table.
The new structure, where teams face eight different opponents, has brought unpredictability and intensity to every matchday. This format has given clubs the chance to shine on the biggest stage, allowing tactical flexibility and squad depth to show it is just as important as a team’s history in the competition.
As the road to Munich approaches, we look at five of the best teams that have captured the imagination of fans across the continent this season.
Liverpool
Arne Slot’s Liverpool has been one of the most surprising success stories in this season’s Champions League.
Expected to struggle in a transition period following Jurgen Klopp’s departure, the Dutch manager has brought composure and structure to the Reds, guiding them to the top of the table at the time of writing.
They’ve secured impressive wins against heavyweights like AC Milan, Bayer Leverkusen, and Real Madrid, showcasing their adaptability and discipline.
Slot’s arrival and return to Europe’s premier competition has reinvigorated a squad hungry for success.With momentum on their side, Liverpool could be on track for a historic seventh Champions League title.
Barcelona
Another manager in his first season at the helm, Hansi Flick has injected new life into Barcelona, blending youthful La Masia talents with seasoned professionals to create an exciting and dynamic team.
Although they’ve struggled domestically, their Champions League form has been far more encouraging, offering a glimpse of their immense potential. A recent victory in the Supercopa de España has boosted their confidence, and with Flick’s experience, including a Champions League win with Bayern in 2020, Barcelona looks like a team capable of going deep into the competition.
Inter
Defensively rock-solid, Inter has conceded just one goal in Europe this season, making them one of the toughest teams to break down.
Their resilience and ability to grind out results evoke memories of their 2010 side, which lifted the trophy under Jose Mourinho. As Italian champions, the Nerazzurri’s organisation and discipline make them a formidable opponent, especially over two legs.
With their defence as a foundation and the strike force of Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram capable of stepping up in big moments, Inter will be a difficult challenge for any side in the knockout rounds.
Lille
Lille have been a revelation in this year’s Champions League, punching above their weight and outperforming Ligue 1 rivals Paris Saint Germain.
At the time of writing, the French champions face the real possibility of an early exit, while Lille has taken points off European giants like Madrid and AC Milan.
Led by the electric Jonathan David, who has already scored 17 goals this season, the Les Dogues play with confidence and flair. Their ability to compete with Europe’s best has been one of the highlights of the campaign, making them a team to watch as the tournament progresses.
Borussia Dortmund
Last season’s runners-up, Borussia Dortmund, are once again making waves in the Champions League.
Nuri Sahin’s appointment as head coach in the summer has brought about a period of adjustment, but the former BVB player now seems to have his team firing.
Dortmund have blown teams away in front of goal, though defensive lapses remain a concern. With a passionate fanbase and a squad brimming with talent, they are poised to be a dark horse in the knockout rounds. If they can tighten up at the back, Dortmund could go one step further than last season’s final heartbreak.