Here’s what you need to know!
Get ready to witness the return of football’s most prestigious and thrilling competition as the Champions League makes its triumphant comeback for the 2023/24 season! With an air of anticipation and excitement sweeping across the footballing world, fans and players alike are eagerly gearing up for another chapter in this epic saga of European football excellence.
As the continent’s elite teams prepare to battle it out on the grandest stage, we delve into what you need to know to stay ahead of the game and savour every moment of this extraordinary sporting spectacle. From star-studded line-ups to tactical masterclasses, this season promises to be an unforgettable journey through the drama, passion, and glory that only the Champions League can provide. So, grab your scarves, don your jerseys, and get ready for a rollercoaster ride through the heart of European football – the Champions League is back!
What to be excited about in Matchweek 1!
There are some seriously mouthwatering clashes in the opening week. Here are 365Scores’ three key games to watch.
AC Milan vs. Newcastle – Tuesday (19/09/2023)
This is an incredible clash. Two European heavyweights who are both close to returning to their former glories clash in a tantalising matchup at the San Siro. Sandro Tonali returns to his former club, probably much sooner than expected. For Newcastle, this is their first Champions League match in over 20 seasons, and what an occasion this will be.
Media duties. 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/p9s9zT9Pxe
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) September 18, 2023
PSG vs. Dortmund – Tuesday (19/09/2023)
In another fantastic game, Dortmund travel to the French capital to face PSG. Nothing has separated these teams in the past. After four games, the pair have drawn twice and won one apiece. The game will be dominated by quality players such as Kylian Mbappé, Marco Reus, Achraf Hakimi, Karim Adeyemi, Ousmane Dembele (against his former side) and so many more. Prepare to be entertained.
Parisians training, 2️⃣ days before the return of the @ChampionsLeague! #PSGBVB #UCL
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) September 17, 2023
pic.twitter.com/DTLYvnDiBB
Bayern Munich vs. Manchester United – Wednesday (20/09/2023)
These two sides have delivered Champions League classics over the years, none more memorable than the 1999 Champions League Final in which The Red Devils scored twice in the 90+ minute to win the coveted title. This year, however, the two teams’ fortunes are slightly different. Bayern Munich remain supreme in Germany and are still a dominant force on the European stage. With players such as Sané, Kane, Musiala and Muller, they are going to cause problems for a United side that has lost three of their first five league games and conceded ten goals on the way. Bring it on!
Who are the favorites this year?
Last year’s winners Manchester City are once again the favourites to win it. They are currently 2/1 to win the Champions League. Bayern Munich are the second favourites at 11/2 followed by Real Madrid (8/1), Arsenal (10/1) and Barcelona (14/1).
By Nicky Helfgott / @NickyH3lfgott on Twitter
