Top 20 European Teams Revealed: Barcelona, PSG, and Liverpool Make the Cut!

Doug McIntyre

Football journalist

What’s the best way to pass time before the 2026 World Cup? Keep an eye on some of the top football clubs as the European club season ramps up.

This weekend, key leagues including England’s Premier League, Spain’s La Liga, and France’s Ligue 1 will kick off, joining Germany’s Bundesliga and Italy’s Serie A, which have already begun their domestic campaigns.

Here’s a list of 20 clubs to keep an eye on as we look forward to the star-studded action that will unfold next summer, reflecting on last season’s performances.

Note: The listed league positions are based on the previous season’s standings.

What if Chelsea had decisively beaten the European champions in last month’s FIFA Club World Cup final? Luis Enrique’s PSG is certainly a team to watch in the 2025-2026 season. While Enrique retains most of his squad from last season’s triumph, goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma could be on the move this month, although they have already secured a replacement in French international Lucas Chevalier for $47 million.

After finishing second last year, Liverpool is gearing up for a title run this season. Despite the heartbreaking loss of forward Diogo Jota, they’ve bolstered their squad with significant investments, acquiring high-profile players such as goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili and defenders Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez for a total of over $350 million, making them favorites for the English title.

Barcelona narrowly missed reaching the UEFA Champions League final last year under first-year manager Hans Flick. This season, they aim to go further, led by emerging talent like 18-year-old Raminyamal, alongside established stars Rafinha, who netted 34 goals last season, and the experienced Robert Lewandowski. The addition of Marcus Rashford further solidifies their attacking options.

Unexpectedly finishing fourth last season, Chelsea surprised everyone by capturing the 32-team Club World Cup in July. They will seek to maintain that momentum in domestic and European competitions, with promising talents like winger Callum Palmer supported by new signings Liam Delap and Estevan.

Despite being Premier League runners-up for three consecutive years, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal still seeks a trophy. After eliminating the Champions League holders in April, they have made standout signings, including defensive midfielder Martin Zubimendi, bolstering their chances.

Real Madrid had a disappointing 2024-2025 season despite being renowned for their competitiveness. However, they maintain a star-studded lineup, now under the guidance of former player Xabi Alonso, taking over from Carlo Ancelotti.

Following an unprecedented Premier League title run, Manchester City struggled last season, finishing third and exiting early from various competitions. With aspirations to bounce back, the squad remains a formidable force.

Inter Milan is a serious contender after reaching the UEFA Champions League final two out of the last three seasons. They’ve strengthened their roster with new signings, while mourning the loss of coach Simone Inzaghi, who has been succeeded by Christian Chivu.

After losing the Bundesliga title to Bayer Leverkusen, Bayern Munich reclaimed their crown last season. They face a challenging year ahead, especially without club legend Thomas Müller. However, the signing of Colombian winger Luis Diaz from Liverpool could help bolster their ranks.

Can Atletico Madrid finally break their title drought and compete with Barcelona and Real Madrid for La Liga glory? Manager Diego Simeone hopes that recent signings, including key players worth $185 million, will turn the tide in their favor.

Napoli, the 2023 and 2025 champions, are eager for another successful European run this season to mark the club’s centenary. They have boosted their squad with Champions League winner Kevin De Bruyne and forward Noa Lang.

Newcastle United made waves by securing a Champions League spot last year, thanks to UEFA allocations. The upcoming season holds promise as they gear up for continued success.

Juventus strengthened their squad by signing Canadian striker Jonathan David on a free transfer, aiming for consistent scoring after sending Randall Kolo Muani back to PSG.

Although Borussia Dortmund has seen emerging talents like Jude Bellingham, their more experienced players, including captain Emre Can, remain pivotal to their pursuit of success.

Surprisingly, Manchester United finished 15th last season but hopes to improve with new signings under Reuben Amorim’s leadership in his first full year at the club.

Monaco has brought in more star talent this summer, including former World Cup winner Paul Pogba, as they aim to advance in the Champions League for the first time since 2017.

Losing key players like Florian Wirtz to Liverpool poses a challenge, but the arrival of solid defenders and new coach Erik ten Hag could help Wolfsburg rise closer to the top of the Bundesliga.

PSV Eindhoven, having reached the Champions League knockout stages, looks to build on their success despite some notable departures, capitalizing on the return of key players.

Galatasaray made headlines by signing Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen and German winger Leroy Sané, marking a strong summer transfer window.

Marseille aims for their first domestic title since 2010 after finishing as Ligue 1 runners-up last season. They’re investing heavily in new talent, attracting players like former Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and USMNT veteran Tim Weah.

Doug McIntyre is a soccer reporter for Fox Sports, covering both the US men’s and women’s national teams at the FIFA World Cup across five continents. Follow him @byugmcinty.

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