Leading Champions League contenders this season




Leading Champions League contenders this season



The Champions League groups were recently confirmed and the draw brought up a host of top clashes on the horizon. Europe's elite club competition is always the piece of silverware that every big team wants to grasp and there are plenty of incredible squads ready to battle it out for the biggest honour this season. Ahead of the eagerly anticipated group games, here are the leading contenders for this season's Champions League trophy, as the long road to the final in Turkey kicks off.

Manchester City




Despite having never won the competition, the Sky Blues are still regarded as the 16/5 favourites with Betfair in the Champions League betting odds to go all the way and finally get their hands on the famous trophy this term. The Premier League champions have been dominant domestically and saw off a strong challenge from Liverpool last term, with Jurgen Klopp's Reds having gone on to become six-time European victors in spite of their failed league exploits. Can Pep Guardiola finally guide a side that isn't Barcelona to Champions League glory? We'll find out in the coming months!

Barcelona




Barcelona haven't got their hands on the Champions League trophy since 2015, when they lifted their fifth ever title. That may not sound like a long time for other clubs, but for one of Barca's stature, it's quite some period without the biggest prize in club football. Lionel Messi and co are therefore a promising 9/2 to finally end that wait for fans this term and claim a sixth crown. You can never rule out a team that has arguably the greatest player in history in their ranks.

Liverpool


Liverpool have fond memories of their 2005 visit to Turkey when they produced one of, if not the biggest comeback in Champions League history to beat AC Milan and secure their then fifth crown. This season's final takes place back in the country of that victory, at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium, and Klopp will be confident of retaining their title there. The Reds will aim to earn back-to-back triumphs in the competition and they are 11/2 to do exactly that next year after what they will hope is a successful group campaign.

Real Madrid


The most successful club in Champions League history are another not to be taken lightly, despite their recent struggles under the guidance of Zinedine Zidane. French boss and club legend Zidane returned to the dugout this year but has been battling to lift form and fortunes throughout pre-season and the backend of last term. After three straight European wins from 2016 to 2018, the Galacticos are now 15/2 to go all the way again and triumph for what would be a remarkable 14th time in their history.

PSG


French giants PSG have had the Champions League in their sights since they came into the big time with a financial boost. They have the talent within their ranks to achieve such success but always seem to fall short at the crucial moment. Could Neymar and co finally end the Paris club's wait for European glory? They are 17/2 to do exactly that next year.