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The Champions League kicks off a new era with its revamped format, and like every season, several players will have the chance to shine. Here we highlight ten players to watch in the tournament.
Among the stars set to compete in this new chapter of the Champions League, there are individuals brimming with talent and a desire to join the ranks of legends. Here are the ten players to keep an eye on.
Rodri
Rodri’s unique ability to bring balance to his teams stands out, whether for Manchester City or the Spanish national team. He is an all-around player, potentially one of the best midfielders in history. With his Champions League experience, he is a key figure to follow this year. He possesses presence, class, and skill, and is starting to show a scoring touch. Despite not having a social media presence, which may lessen his visibility compared to others, any top-level coach would love to have him on their side.
Vinícius Júnior
There is no doubt about Vinícius’s speed, agility, and dribbling skills. The Brazilian has established himself as a player who intimidates opponents with his performance over the past three years. He is not only considered the best in his position but is also in the conversation for being the best player in the world. With two Champions League titles already to his name, he aims to secure yet another trophy to continue breaking records with Real Madrid.
Kylian Mbappé
The French forward has yet to achieve significant club success in the Champions League. Mbappé has not won any major titles with PSG and recognizes that the opportunity presented by Real Madrid is crucial for his ambitions. While his skills are widely known, his driving motivation this year is the hunger to win a Champions League title, which remains his dream. He will continue to fight for it as long as he is able.
Erling Haaland
The Norwegian striker for Manchester City is already regarded as one of the best center-forwards in history. At just 24, he has already won a Champions League title but is eager for more, especially as many consider City a leading contender for this year’s trophy alongside Real Madrid. This drives Haaland’s goal to silence any doubts about his performance in crucial matches. He is determined to score, be influential, and add another title to his growing legacy.
Lamine Yamal
The 17-year-old is one of the players to watch this season. After winning the league with Barcelona in his debut year and participating in the recent Euro with Spain, he is eager for more. Though winning the Champions League may be a challenge for Barcelona, he intends to make his mark. This could be his year to shine on the European stage, as he aims to showcase improvements in his physicality, composure, and consistency. His skill set aligns with those destined for greatness and he could become a vital player for Hansi Flick.
Vitinha
Without a doubt, he is one of the standout midfielders at the moment. His arrival last year proved he is a complete player with exceptional touch and a unique vision of the game. Paris Saint-Germain is significantly impacted when he is not on the field. The Portuguese made a quiet entrance but was key in Luis Enrique’s strategy and will continue to be crucial this season. Many are eager to witness his growth as a midfield talent poised for greatness in European football.
Jude Bellingham
In his first season with Real Madrid, Bellingham has already secured his first Champions League title, a feat he could only dream of. Therefore, the Englishman aims to start the season on a high note, establishing himself and continuing to evolve in Europe. Last year, his performance fluctuated, but he maintained a balance of scoring ability and pressure on opponents, earning praise from Ancelotti for his sacrifice and leadership. With Toni Kroos absent, there is intrigue regarding his role this season, and what better stage than the Champions League to showcase his potential.
Jamal Musiala
Another of the continent’s most promising talents is now taking on a more prominent role. Last year began quietly for him, but he emerged in the second half of the season as a player who can break through defenses, spotting opportunities where others see barriers, displaying a personality that exudes confidence. His potential is only beginning to be tapped, which is why Bayern Munich holds on to him as a key figure they hope will help restore the club to the top of European football.
Florian Wirtz
This will be Wirtz’s first season in the Champions League. As with all debuts, he will need time to adjust, but last season he demonstrated that he is destined to be one of the future greats. He may play a secondary role this year, but he has a perfect opportunity to prove that his youth should not be an excuse for doubters. For Xabi Alonso, he is irreplaceable and considered a missing piece by many top European clubs. We shall see if a year from now we write similar lines about Wirtz’s future, whether at Bayer Leverkusen or with a major club.
Antoine Griezmann
Unless an unexpected miracle occurs, it seems this could be Griezmann’s final year in the Champions League. Therefore, he is more motivated than ever to showcase his enduring talent as an elite player. This year, he seeks to impart his European experience to the new generation of Atlético Madrid’s recruits, ensuring his legacy is left in capable hands.