Who Can Go Far in Europe?

Last updated on August 31, 2025

7 min read

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English Premier League clubs—Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham—are eager to make their mark,
Image credit: Skye Football

The UEFA Champions League is back, and Europe’s biggest stage is calling.

England’s top clubs are ready to answer, with the Premier League’s Big 5—Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham—carrying huge expectations.

It won’t be easy; every match is a test, and one slip can change everything.

This season promises drama, surprises, and unforgettable moments.

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The real question is simple: who among England’s finest has what it takes to go far in Europe?

Manchester City – Masters of Consistency

Manchester City are perennial contenders in the UEFA Champions League, boasting a squad brimming with talent and depth.

Under Pep Guardiola, they’ve evolved into a well-oiled machine, known for their tactical flexibility and ability to control games.

The addition of players like Rayan Cherki adds a new dimension to their attacking play, offering creativity and flair in the final third.

However, despite their domestic dominance, City’s European journey has been marred by near-misses.

In the 2024/25 season, they suffered a dramatic quarter-final exit against Real Madrid, losing 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw over two legs .

This followed a 3-1 defeat to Real Madrid in the Round of 16, marking their earliest Champions League exit in 12 years .

As they embark on the 2025/26 campaign, City face a challenging group featuring Borussia Dortmund, Real Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, and Napoli.

While their squad depth and tactical acumen make them favorites to progress to the knockout stages, the pressure of high-stakes European matches remains a significant hurdle.

In summary, Manchester City’s blend of experience, talent, and tactical prowess positions them as strong contenders in this season’s Champions League.

Yet, overcoming the psychological barriers in crucial knockout ties will be key to their aspirations of European glory.

Liverpool – Emotional Powerhouse

Liverpool’s journey in the UEFA Champions League is expected to be filled with passion and resilience.

Under manager Arne Slot, the team has shown a strong attacking style, with new signings like Florian Wirtz adding creativity to their play.

The squad is led by experienced players such as Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Alisson, who bring stability and leadership.

However, the team faces challenges.

The tragic passing of Diogo Jota has deeply affected the squad, and the loss of key attackers like Luis Díaz and Darwin Núñez has left gaps in the forward line.

To address this, Liverpool have brought in Hugo Ekitiké, but concerns about squad depth remain, especially with the demanding schedule ahead.

Liverpool’s Champions League group includes tough opponents like Real Madrid, Atlético Madrid, Inter Milan, and Marseille.

These matches will test the team’s strength and unity.

The Reds will need to stay focused and work together to overcome these challenges and make a deep run in the competition.

Arsenal – Youthful Ambition

For Arsenal, the UEFA Champions League this season feels different.

Under Mikel Arteta, they’ve built a team full of young, hungry players eager to prove themselves on Europe’s biggest stage.

The squad’s energy is infectious, with rising stars like Bukayo Saka, Decla Rice, and William Saliba leading the charge.

They also have their new boys with them: Viktor Gyökeres, Martin Zubimendi, and Noni Madueke.

Their pressing game is relentless, aiming to win the ball high up the pitch and create scoring opportunities.

However, with youth comes inexperience.

Many of these players haven’t faced the pressure of knockout rounds in the Champions League, and that could be a challenge.

While their attacking play is exciting, consistency has been an issue, especially against top-tier European teams.

The group stage draw presents tough tests: Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, and Atlético Madrid.

These matches will be a real test of Arsenal’s growth and resilience.

Despite the challenges, Arsenal’s youthful ambition makes them a team to watch.

If they can stay consistent and handle the pressure, they might just surprise the established elites of Europe.

Chelsea – Rebuilding but Dangerous

Chelsea are back in the UEFA Champions League after a two-year absence, and they’re ready to make an impact.

Under manager Enzo Maresca, the team has undergone significant changes, with several new signings bringing fresh energy and talent to the squad.

The Blues have a solid defensive foundation, bolstered by experienced players and promising talents.

Their tactical approach, combined with a mix of youth and experience, makes them a formidable opponent for any team.

However, the road ahead isn’t without challenges.

Chelsea’s Champions League group stage draw is exceptionally challenging, with tough fixtures against top-tier clubs.

Chelsea have a history of upsetting top teams in the Champions League, and with their current squad, they have the potential to cause surprises once again.

The team will need to navigate these matches carefully and maintain consistency to progress.

Despite the challenges, Chelsea’s blend of defensive solidity and tactical flexibility positions them as potential quarter-final contenders.

If they can harness their full potential and perform cohesively, they have the capability to cause upsets and make a deep run in the competition.

Tottenham Hotspur – The Wildcard

Tottenham Hotspur are back in the UEFA Champions League after a two-year absence, and, like Chelsea they’re eager to make an impact.

Under new manager Thomas Frank, the team has shown promising signs in the Premier League, and they’ll be looking to carry that form into Europe.

The squad boasts a mix of experienced players and exciting talents, including the likes of Mohammed Kudus and Brennan Johnson, who scored the winning goal in the 2025 UEFA Europa League final.

Their attacking play has been dynamic, and they’ll be aiming to bring that energy to the Champions League.

However, the road ahead isn’t without challenges.

Tottenham’s group stage draw includes formidable opponents such as Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund, which will test the team’s resilience and adaptability.

Despite these challenges, Tottenham’s blend of experience and youthful ambition makes them a team to watch.