Champions League 2024-25 power rankings as 36 teams shape up for league phase (original) (raw)

Real Madrid will look to defend their title and Manchester City lead the Premier League's charge but new and expanded Champions League format should offer hope to more clubs

The Champions League is back and it's bigger than ever. UEFA's new League Phase has already divided many fans before a ball is kicked but with 36 teams now playing eight games before reaching the knockout rounds, one thing that can be guaranteed is more games.

A couple of new names are appearing in the Champions League for the first time, bringing some freshness to the new format. Then again the contenders for ultimate glory are all the familiar names.

Mirror Football has ranked them all from smallest chance to the best as European club football kicks fully back into gear this week.