The Athletic’s 2026-27 Champions League Preview and Rankings

The 2026-27 Champions League draw is scheduled for this evening, featuring 36 clubs in its third season of the ‘Swiss League’ format. While many teams participate, the true contenders are few. The focus is on Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Arsenal, and Barcelona as potential champions in Madrid next June.

Introduction to the Contenders

The Athletic provides an overview, detailing 36 teams ranked from least likely to top.

36. Sabah

Formed in 2017, Sabah is the second Azerbaijani team to qualify after defeating Hapoel Be’er Sheva. They outperformed Qarabag domestically, led by coach Valdas Dambrauskas who also fundraised for his coaching badges via a quiz show.

35. Slovan Bratislava

Slovan, led by Yaya Toure, lost once in 18 games and won eight consecutive Slovakian titles. Despite a poor past Champions League showing, they have a solid squad featuring Andraz Sporar and Tigran Barseghyan.

34. Viking

Viking ended domestic dominance, winning the title over Bodo/Glimt. Zlatko Tripic propelled them past Dinamo Zagreb to reach the group stage, showcasing remarkable form with 14 assists this season.

33. LASK

LASK’s epic comeback against Celtic is memorable. They won Austria’s title in 2025-26, relying on forward Moses Usor and Samuel Adeniran. Manager Dietmar Kuhbauer employs an expansive 3-5-2 formation.

32. AEK Athens

AEK prevailed against Levski Sofia with familiar names like Luka Jovic and Lovro Majer. Fans are eager to see Jovic’s performance this season.

31. Slavia Prague

In Prague, Slavia contended against Barcelona in last season’s league phase. Under Jindrich Trpisovsky, they employ a pressing, physical style but still struggle against Europe’s elite.

30. Fenerbahce

Fenerbahce’s investments have paid off, showcased by a win at Lyon. With Vedat Muriqi and Romelu Lukaku in attack, alongside newcomers Mason Greenwood and Nathan Ake, they aim to make a mark.

29. Stuttgart

Coach Sebastian Hoeness revitalized Stuttgart, moving them from relegation risks to Champions League contention. Retaining Angelo Stiller and key signing Bilal El Khannouss offer hopes for success.

28. Galatasaray

Victor Osimhen’s prowess keeps Galatasaray competitive. They nearly squandered a lead against Juventus last season, indicating inconsistencies despite strong individual talent.

27. Lens

Lens faces challenges after losing key staff to Premier League teams. Although talented, their weakened squad raises doubts about their competitive potential.

26. Feyenoord

The Eredivisie’s waning strength poses concerns. Feyenoord, trailing PSV last season, must overcome league challenges to compete on a European stage.

25. Shakhtar Donetsk

Shakhtar adapts to tough circumstances in London post-conflict. Known for recruiting Brazilian talents, they promise exciting football during the competition.

24. Bodo/Glimt

After underestimations, Bodo/Glimt proved critics wrong by reaching knockouts last season. Brilliant form and talents like Jens Petter Hauge further boost their potential.

23. Villarreal

Villarreal’s weak showing contrasts with strong domestic form. Struggling last season, they look to improve significantly both at home and in Europe.

22. Real Betis

With Manuel Pellegrini’s leadership, Betis relishes their first Champions League in 21 years. Their squad includes Antony and Irish star Troy Parrott, sporadically poised for surprises.

21. Club Brugge

Despite losing star Christos Tzolis, Brugge’s talent scouting ensures they remain an unpredictable force. Expect surprises from their promising young players.

20. Lille

With Olivier Giroud aging, Lille focuses on young midfielders like departed Ayyoub Bouaddi. Knockout ambitions are challenged without him, but potential remains.

19. Sporting CP

Sporting CP’s quarter-final run last season raised eyebrows. With new signings like Nestory Irankunda, they aim to replicate, though a repeat is uncertain.

18. PSV

After domestic dominion, PSV struggled in Europe last season. Despite marquee wins, squad changes challenge continuation of such performances.

17. RB Leipzig

Amidst internal changes, Leipzig relies on new coach Martin Demichelis. With top star Yan Diomande’s exit, the squad faces uncertainties in Europe.

16. Porto

Francesco Farioli leads a rejuvenated Porto. Their Champions League hopes hinge on Samu Aghehowa’s fitness, impacting their European challenge.

15. Aston Villa

Under Unai Emery, Villa navigates uncertain waters. Player departures add pressure to balance league commitments and European aspirations.

14. Como

Como’s rapid rise features superstar talent Nico Paz. Their journey from Serie A fourth place sparks interest, but European success remains ambitious.

13. Borussia Dortmund

Often second to Bayern domestically, Dortmund punches above its weight in Europe. Returning Greek talent adds excitement alongside typical constraints.

12. Napoli

Napoli’s European history poses questions about their potential. Massimiliano Allegri adds intrigue, with Scott McTominay’s contributions watched closely.

11. Roma

Roma mixes unpredictability with potential depth runs. Gian Piero Gasperini’s squad showcases Donyell Malen, whose transformation fuels exceptional expectations.

10. Manchester United

Back in the competition, United’s form under Michael Carrick is uncertain. A strong attack marred by defensive concerns awaits scrutiny.

9. Atletico Madrid

Under Diego Simeone, Atletico remains formidable despite losing Antoine Griezmann. Ever-resilient, past successes inspire future aspirations.

8. Liverpool

Andoni Iraola’s leadership faces scrutiny. Despite theoretical talent, squad gaps and new signings raise questions about European competitiveness.

7. Inter

Inter, recent double champions, looks strong with Lautaro Martinez spearheading their attack. English reinforcements add depth to the Italian champions.

6. Manchester City

Post-Giardiola changes make City’s outcomes unpredictable. Major squad alterations question their European aspirations, offering an intriguing journey.

5. Real Madrid

Madrid’s perennial contenders face challenges with Jose Mourinho’s leadership return. Youthful recruitment adds dynamics, but equilibrium remains elusive.

4. Barcelona

Barcelona focuses on Europe, strengthened by Spanish talent. Attacking queries shadow their strong squad, yet ambitions stay high.

3. Bayern Munich

Harry Kane’s formidable presence boosts Bayern’s ambitions. Under Vincent Kompany, victories are anticipated after past setbacks.

2. Arsenal

After last season’s near glory, Arsenal aims higher. Though boasting depth, attack prowess poses questions amidst Champions League pursuits.

1. Paris Saint-Germain

PSG seeks historic three-peat. Efficient squad reshaping under Luis Enrique enhances endurance for European fixtures, making them favorites.