As the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 season reaches the business end, the quarter-finals have set the stage for a thrilling climax. With the semi-finals just around the corner, speculation is rife about which teams are poised to lift the trophy and which ones will continue their European journey. Let’s take a look at the teams most likely to progress through the quarter-finals and the ones tipped to win the coveted Champions League title.
1. Manchester City – The Favourite
Manchester City remains one of the clear favourites to win the 2024/25 Champions League. Under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, City has established itself as a powerhouse in Europe, combining a solid defensive structure with an attacking force that is as fluid as it is devastating. Their dominant performance in the quarter-finals against Paris Saint-Germain sent a strong message to their competitors.
With key players like Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, and Jack Grealish leading the charge, City’s depth and quality make them the team to beat. Having reached the final in 2021 and lost to Chelsea, their hunger to claim European glory is more evident than ever. If they maintain their form and stay injury-free, Manchester City could very well be lifting their first Champions League title this season.
2. Arsenal – The Underdog With Momentum
Arsenal’s dramatic win over Real Madrid in the quarter-finals has solidified their status as a team on the rise. While the Gunners might not have the same European pedigree as some of the bigger clubs, their performances in the competition this year have been nothing short of impressive. Mikel Arteta has built a squad that blends youth with experience, with Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, and Gabriel Martinelli playing key roles in their success.
Arsenal’s impressive first-leg victory against Madrid, coupled with their strong defensive setup, makes them a team to watch. Though they may not be the outright favourites, their mix of tactical discipline, attacking threat, and team spirit could see them go all the way to the final.
3. Bayern Munich – The Eternal Contender
Despite being knocked out by Inter Milan in the quarter-finals, Bayern Munich has long been one of Europe’s most feared teams. With a blend of experience, world-class talent, and a relentless winning mentality, Bayern always seem to be in the conversation when it comes to Champions League glory.
With players like Joshua Kimmich, Thomas Müller, and Leroy Sané, Bayern has the quality to challenge for the title in any given season. Although they fell short this year, their pedigree and consistent track record in the competition will make them a contender in future seasons.
4. Real Madrid – The Kings of Europe
Even though Real Madrid suffered a shock defeat to Arsenal in the quarter-finals, it would be unwise to count them out in any Champions League campaign. With 14 titles under their belt, Los Blancos’ legacy in Europe speaks for itself. Real Madrid has the ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most, and players like Luka Modrić, Toni Kroos, and Karim Benzema continue to perform at the highest level.
While they may not have made it past Arsenal this time around, Real Madrid’s vast experience in handling pressure situations in Europe makes them perennial contenders for the title. They remain one of the most dangerous teams in the Champions League, capable of producing moments of magic when least expected.
5. Inter Milan – The Dark Horse
Inter Milan’s surprise progression to the semi-finals has caught the attention of many, with their disciplined defense and counter-attacking style of play proving highly effective in the knockout rounds. Against Bayern Munich, they displayed resilience and tactical acumen, booking their place in the next round with a gritty and organised performance.
While Inter Milan might not boast the same star-studded lineup as some of the other contenders, their ability to play with purpose and structure makes them a team that could surprise in the semi-finals. Their deep defensive strength and clinical attack could see them challenge the big guns in the latter stages of the competition.
6. PSG – The Ultimate ‘What If?’
Paris Saint-Germain remains one of the most exciting teams in Europe, with an attacking trio of Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi, and Neymar capable of unlocking any defense. However, their inability to overcome Manchester City in the quarter-finals once again raised questions about their consistency and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations.
Despite their star power, PSG’s European ambitions seem to fall short when it matters most. Their early exit from this year’s competition highlights the ongoing issue of balancing talent with teamwork and tactical discipline. Though they remain one of the richest clubs in Europe, PSG’s journey to Champions League glory still feels elusive.
