A four-time Champions League winner has made bold predictions ahead of the 2024-25 competition. Former Barcelona defender Gerard Piqué has shared his thoughts on the Champions League favorites and the impact of the competition’s new format.
What Piqué Said
Piqué, who won the Champions League with Manchester United in 2007-08 and with Barcelona in 2008-09, 2010-11, and 2014-15, considers Real Madrid and Manchester City as the top contenders for this season’s title. He expressed uncertainty about Liverpool’s prospects following Jürgen Klopp’s departure.
“I think Real Madrid and City are both favorites due to their squads and recent successes,” Piqué told Express Sport. “They are the last two champions and thus the leading favorites. Liverpool, with a new coach, are in the second tier of favorites. After City and Madrid, there is a tier with Liverpool, PSG, Arsenal, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich.”
Man City vs Real Madrid
Piqué has backed either Real Madrid or Manchester City to win this season’s Champions League. He highlighted the significance of luck and preparation in the tournament, noting that the new format, which features matches between top European teams early on, introduces additional uncertainty.
“The Champions League is extremely challenging. Being ready at the right time and having a bit of luck are crucial,” Piqué said. “The new format adds a level of unpredictability, so we’ll see how it unfolds.”
What Comes Next
The revamped Champions League kicks off on September 17, 2024, with Juventus hosting PSV and Young Boys welcoming Aston Villa in the evening fixtures.