Champions League 2023: Expert Predictions and Insights
Champions League 2023: Who Will Claim the Trophy?
The UEFA Champions League returns this week, igniting excitement among fans as they ponder who will lift the coveted trophy this season. Defending champions Paris Saint-Germain are among the 36 teams entering the league phase, which features a record six English clubs.
Kicking off on Tuesday, the tournament will see a total of 189 matches played, culminating in the final at Budapest's Puskas Arena next May.
BBC Sport has consulted its panel of expert pundits, commentators, and journalists to gather their predictions on who will emerge victorious in Hungary, as well as which English clubs—Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur—will progress the furthest. They also shared insights on potential surprise teams and players to watch this season.
Fans can cast their votes on who they believe will win the tournament. Additionally, the BBC will continue to provide highlights of the Champions League, with match-by-match recaps available on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app every Wednesday at 22:00 BST, along with a special Champions League Match of the Day on BBC One at 22:40. A highlights show will also air on BBC Two on Thursday at 23:00.
Expert Predictions
Phil McNulty, BBC's chief football writer: I believe Liverpool will win the tournament, particularly due to their significant summer signings, including Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak, who are both ready for Champions League action. Last season, Liverpool faced eventual winners PSG in the round of 16, losing on penalties at Anfield. If they reach the knockout stage, the Anfield atmosphere will only intensify.
PSG remains a formidable contender, boasting a talented squad that justifies their status as one of Europe's elite teams. Real Madrid is also a perennial favorite in any Champions League discussion.
Sami Mokbel, BBC's senior football correspondent: My choice is also Liverpool . They have won all four of their Premier League matches so far and have yet to reach their full potential. With Isak available, they are the team to beat.
Thomas Hitzlsperger, former Germany midfielder: Real Madrid typically possesses the strongest mentality in this competition, but PSG and Liverpool are equally strong contenders due to their impressive performances in the Premier League and significant squad investments.
John Murray, BBC Radio 5 Live football correspondent: It's hard to overlook Liverpool after their successful Premier League campaign and substantial investment in new players. Last season, they narrowly missed out to the eventual champions in a penalty shootout. A final showdown between Liverpool and PSG in Budapest would be a thrilling prospect.
Steve Wilson, Match of the Day commentator: Predicting Real Madrid as Champions League winners is hardly controversial. Xabi Alonso's management has shown promise, particularly with the integration of Arda Guler into the squad.
Rory Smith, The Observer football correspondent: It's been too long since Real Madrid last lifted the trophy. Alonso's task is to rectify that, and while they may not always be the most cohesive team, their individual talent often makes the difference.
Steph Houghton, former England captain: I am backing PSG for the win. They have a young, experienced squad that is both athletic and forward-thinking.
Pat Nevin, former Scotland winger: I chose PSG based on their innovative attacking style and the excitement they bring to the game.
Guillem Balague, Spanish football expert: I believe PSG is on the brink of a new era of success, combining positional football with strong leadership and top-tier players.
Stephen Warnock, BBC Champions League analyst: I predict Barcelona will take the title, with Lamine Yamal emerging as a standout player in the tournament.
Matt Upson, former Arsenal defender: I am also selecting Barcelona , a young team that gained valuable experience during their impressive run to the semi-finals last season.
Nicky Bandini, Italian football expert: My pick is Liverpool . Winning the Champions League often hinges on fitness and form during crucial moments. Liverpool's squad is well-equipped for a deep run this season.
Theo Walcott, former Arsenal forward: I believe Arsenal could have triumphed last season if they had a player like Viktor Gyokeres in the lineup during the PSG semi-final. His presence could significantly impact their performance in this year's Champions League.