The Champions League for the 2025-26 season will recommence in 2026 after six league matches, which will take place from September to December 2025. However, major European leagues will continue to operate without interruption during this period. Arsenal and Manchester City are both in the hunt for another Premier League crown, while Bayern Munich is again leading the Bundesliga. In La Liga, Real Madrid is facing challenges, with manager Xabi Alonso under increasing pressure, while Barcelona appears to be gaining strength. Here’s a look at this week’s power rankings:
1. Arsenal (–)
It was a tough match weekend for Mikel Arteta’s team, who managed a 2-1 victory over Wolverhampton, benefiting from two own goals, one of which occurred right before stoppage time. Following a 3-0 defeat of Manchester City, Arsenal remains at the top of the Premier League with a two-point cushion over Manchester City. Club Bruges was the only team last week to secure a top-eight finish and a place in the Champions League knockout stages.
2. Bayern Munich (–)
Bayern Munich remains Arsenal’s closest competitor after securing a 3-1 win against Sporting CP in their last Champions League match, as they continue to dominate in their league. The emergence of new talents, such as Renato Karl, is positioning them as key players in the forthcoming 2026 World Cup.
3. Barcelona (–)
Barcelona has shown significant improvement over the past month, having won twice last week against Eintracht Frankfurt and Alaves, which helped them strengthen their position in La Liga against Real Madrid. Under Hansi Flick, their star player’s return from injury has further solidified their status as a top contender in both La Liga and the Champions League.
4. Manchester City (+1)
After a rocky start, Manchester City is now just two points behind Arsenal in the league standings. Josep Guardiola’s team is also well-positioned for a top-eight finish in the Champions League, buoyed by Erling Haaland’s impressive scoring streak.
5. PSG (-1)
This season, the reigning Champions League titleholders seem less formidable than last year when they were dominant in France. Despite major injuries, they are still in contention for a top-eight finish, just one point behind Lens, and their form is expected to improve in the coming weeks, making them a significant factor in both tournaments.
6. Inter Milan (–)
The Nerazzurri have had a disappointing stretch, losing their last two Champions League matches to Atletico Madrid.However, they did achieve victory last weekend, allowing them to recover and take back the lead in Serie A.
7. Atletico Madrid (+1)
After facing two consecutive losses against Barcelona and Athletic Club, Atletico Madrid has steadied themselves with wins against PSV and Valencia, closing in on the top four in La Liga and targeting a Champions League top-eight position.
8. Chelsea (-1)
Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea has struggled recently, winning just two of their last five Premier League matches. The Italian manager expressed dissatisfaction in a post-match interview, hinting at possible disagreements with club ownership, an issue to watch as the season progresses.
9. Real Madrid (–)
Real Madrid’s situation appears a bit brighter following their win against Alaves, but the pressure remains on manager Xabi Alonso after some frustrating matches, including a defeat to Manchester City.
10. Liverpool (+1)
With Mo Salah preparing to join the Egyptian national team for AFCON, his future at Liverpool hangs in the balance, especially as two recent wins have eased the pressure on manager Arne Slott, restoring confidence among players and supporters.
11. Atalanta (+7)
Atalanta is on an upward trajectory since Raffaele Palladino took over as manager, highlighted by a noteworthy victory against Chelsea. This form suggests they might contend for a top-eight finish in their league stage.
12. Newcastle (-2)
Newcastle has not fared well this season, with their recent 1-0 loss to Derby showcasing struggles after a comparatively strong past. They appear less formidable now than they did previously, despite the potential to advance.
13. Olympique Marseille (–)
Roberto De Zerbi’s team has had an impressive season, currently positioned well for advancement after two consecutive Champions League victories. They’ve shown they can be formidable opponents in Europe.
14. Galatasaray (-2)
Despite talent on their roster, two recent defeats against Union SG and AS Monaco in the Champions League have diminished their prospects. Yet, they still have the potential to challenge tougher competition in the knockouts.
15. Borussia Dortmund (–)
A home draw against Bodø/Glimt was disappointing for the 2024 Champions League finalists, but they remain in mid-table with a reasonable chance of top 16 advancement.
16. Tottenham (-1)
Tottenham appears stronger in Europe than in the Premier League, where they have only secured one win across their last five matches. Manager Thomas Frank’s future may rely on how effectively he can turn the tide.
17. Sporting CP (–)
Sporting CP is determined to climb the domestic league standings while aiming for the Champions League playoffs. Their upcoming matches against Bayern Munich, PSG, and Athletic Club will significantly clarify their European aspirations.
18. Bayer Leverkusen (+1)
A recent draw with Newcastle has hindered their chances for a top 16 finish, but they still have opportunities in the Champions League playoffs.
19. Juventus (+1)
Luciano Spalletti seems to be making strides with Juventus, as their play has improved, pointing to a possible resurgence after earlier struggles this season.
20. Napoli (-4)
Antonio Conte finds himself under scrutiny again; injuries have marred performance, particularly following a loss to Benfica in the Champions League, risking their hopes of advancing and performing well this season.
21. PSV (+1)
The Dutch team is currently dominant in their league with 14 victories from 16 matches, making strides toward the Champions League’s later rounds, highlighted by notable wins against Liverpool and Napoli.
22. AS Monaco (-1)
Monaco continues to face challenges both in Europe and domestically, but they remain in the hunt for a playoff spot despite recent setbacks.
23. Club Brugge (–)
Though they have talent, Club Brugge seems to be underperforming this season, suffering losses after a promising start.
24. Benfica (+5)
Jose Mourinho’s success might be taking shape following a surprising victory against Napoli, suggesting that Benfica still has a chance for a comeback.
25. Copenhagen (–)
Copenhagen has defied expectations by claiming a recent victory over Villarreal, changing their standing for potential progression.
26. Kalabagh (-1)
After a promising start, Kalabagh has stumbled, especially following a surprise defeat to Ajax.
27. Eintracht Frankfurt (-1)
After their loss to Barcelona, Eintracht Frankfurt may see their hopes for playoff progression dwindle further.
28. Union Saint Gilloise (+1)
A recent home defeat against Olympique Marseille has severely impacted their hopes for qualification.
29. Athletic Club (-2)
Expectations were high for Athletic Club this season, but they have failed to deliver on their promise, disappointing those who anticipated a strong showing.
30. Villarreal (-1)
Despite performing well in La Liga, Villarreal’s Champions League efforts have been disheartening, leading to a request for assistance.
31. Pathos (–)
Pathos has exceeded expectations, highlighted by their first Champions League victory, but they were unable to capitalize further.
32. Slavia Prague (–)
Unfortunately, Slavia Prague does not appear to measure up to the competition this season, though some improvement can be anticipated.
33. Olympiakos (–)
Olympiakos achieved their first away win in the Champions League this season but remains on a path that appears insufficient for advancement.
34. Bodo/Glimt (–)
While Bodo/Glimt is performing well domestically, their European aspirations are virtually nonexistent following a draw with Borussia Dortmund.
35. Ajax (+1)
With their first win against Qarabag, Ajax is finally lifting themselves from the bottom of the rankings, marking a positive moment for the club.
36. Kairat (-1)
Qualifying for the Champions League is a remarkable achievement for Kairat, and they continue to resonate support.
Fan Take: This news is crucial for soccer fans as it highlights the shifting dynamics in major leagues and the Champions League, directly impacting the paths teams take toward glory. The intense competition underscores how quickly fortunes can change in football, making every match vital as clubs aim for titles and top finishes.
