The Champions League season for 2025-26 is set to continue in two weeks, showcasing six league matches from September to December 2025, during which Europe’s top leagues will remain active. Arsenal and Manchester City are gearing up for another intense competition for the Premier League title, while Bayern Munich continues its dominance in the Bundesliga. Juventus has reestablished its position at the top of Serie A, and it appears that Real Madrid has resolved their earlier issues. Here’s a look at the current power rankings.
1. Arsenal (–)
I’m increasingly convinced that this could be the year Arsenal finally secures a title. Under Mikel Arteta, the team holds a six-point lead over Manchester City in the Premier League and is leading the Champions League group. Not securing at least one trophy in the next five months would be disappointing.
2. Bayern Munich (–)
The Bundesliga kicks off again this week after the winter break, and Bayern Munich is poised to continue its impressive scoring run, having netted 55 goals in 15 league matches, averaging 3.6 goals per game, and earning its status as one of the top teams this season.
3. Manchester City (–)
Despite a recent home draw against Chelsea, which halted Arsenal’s momentum, Manchester City remains determined to push forward. The future of Spanish manager Josep Guardiola, whose contract extends to 2027, is becoming a hot topic; these next six months may be pivotal for him and the team.
4. Barcelona (–)
Hansi Flick’s squad has shown significant improvement, winning their last four competitive matches 2-0, particularly strengthening their defense ahead of the Spanish Super Cup.
5. PSG (–)
PSG will be ready to welcome new reinforcements after the 2025 AFCON, with Achraf Hakimi back from injury, which will significantly benefit manager Luis Enrique’s plans as Ligue 1 and the Champions League enter critical stages.
6. Inter Milan (+1)
Inter has demonstrated impressive form in recent weeks, delivering exciting performances and securing victories over teams like Bologna. This week’s clash against Napoli could be crucial in shaping the title race.
7. Real Madrid (+2)
Xabi Alonso, who was under pressure a month ago, has successfully navigated the team through turbulence. The recent 5-1 victory against Real Betis, featuring a hat trick from Gonzalo Garcia, has reignited interest in the squad.
8. Atlético Madrid (-2)
Diego Simeone’s team has faced inconsistency this season, struggling to challenge for the title against rivals Real Madrid and Barcelona. After last summer’s expectations, many hoped for a better performance.
9. Atalanta (+1)
Raffaele Palladino has effectively turned around Atalanta’s fortunes since taking over, achieving a 1-0 win against AS Roma, marking a fresh chapter for the team after a disappointing start.
10. Liverpool (+1)
This rank reflects their situation following recent events, particularly the retirement of Enzo Maresca, as they maintain a higher position compared to Chelsea.
11. Chelsea (-3)
Once again, Chelsea seems to be in turmoil; in my previous rankings, I called for Enzo Maresca to have more time, but it appears the board did not heed that advice.
12. Olympique Marseille (–)
With the potential to challenge PSG, Roberto De Zerbi’s team is generating buzz and may attract attention from other clubs this summer.
13. Newcastle (–)
Eddie Howe’s side is struggling to find form and now sits in ninth place, not meeting the preseason expectations set earlier in the year.
14. Borussia Dortmund (–)
As the Bundesliga restarts, Dortmund aims to close the gap with Bayern Munich, but their main focus will likely be on securing a solid position in the Champions League.
15. Galatasaray (–)
After a promising summer, expectations are high for Galatasaray, especially in the Champions League, and they are reportedly targeting Italian midfielder Davide Frattesi from Inter.
16. Napoli (+1)
Although they are underperforming in the Champions League, Napoli has been strong in Serie A, despite facing significant injuries.
17. Juventus (-1)
Juventus had a decent draw with Lecce recently, but under manager Luciano Spalletti, there are hopes to extend his contract and build a stronger team.
18. Bayer Leverkusen (–)
There’s uncertainty following Erik ten Hag’s dismissal and the appointment of Kasper Urmand, as the team seeks stability amid a chaotic roster overhaul.
19. Sporting CP (–)
Francesco Farioli’s team currently remains unbeaten in the Portuguese league, setting the pace with 16 wins and one draw.
20. PSV (+1)
PSV is experiencing success in their league campaign with an impressive record of 15 wins, one draw, and only a single loss to Feyenoord.
21. Tottenham (-1)
Despite hopes for Thomas Frank, the results have been underwhelming, raising questions about his future.
22. AS Monaco (–)
This season has posed challenges for AS Monaco, as they strive to return to their former glory with the right managerial changes.
23. Benfica (–)
They seem to have found the right manager, but uncertainty hangs over how long he’ll stay, especially with rumors of a potential return for Jose Mourinho.
24. Club Brugge (–)
The club may struggle to keep hold of their star players this year, particularly with speculation surrounding striker Nicolo Tresoldi attending matches as a scout for AC Milan.
25. Copenhagen (–)
Their unexpected win against Villarreal helped them reach the league playoff stage, a pleasant surprise for the team and their fans.
26. Kalabagh (–)
Their initial success has dwindled, making it difficult to believe they can maintain a playoff position moving forward.
27. Eintracht Frankfurt (–)
Conceding 30 goals in 15 Bundesliga matches is a troubling trend that doesn’t bode well for their future.
28. Union Saint Giloise (–)
With little chance of making the playoffs, they are redirecting their focus toward league performance.
29. Athletic Club (–)
The anticipated strong performance has been realized, demonstrating their potential in the league.
30. Villarreal (–)
Currently positioned third in La Liga, they are surprisingly underperforming in the Champions League despite impressive domestic results.
31. Pathos (–)
Their appearance in the Champions League was exciting, and fans hope to see them return in the future.
32. Slavia Prague (–)
Respectfully, they are not on par with the competition, which was expected this season.
33. Olympiakos (–)
Expectations for better results perhaps should have been tempered for this team.
34. Bodo/Glimt (–)
I had higher hopes for their European journey this season, especially given home advantage.
35. Ajax (–)
Ajax is proving to be one of the biggest disappointments of the season, with many months left to rectify their situation.
36. Kairat (–)
I look forward to writing about them weekly and hope they make a return to the Champions League stage next season with their unique contribution.
Fan Take: This news is crucial for soccer enthusiasts as it outlines the shifting dynamics within European football, highlighting emerging talents and the potential for major title races. The performance of teams like Arsenal and Bayern Munich showcases the competitive spirit of the leagues, promising thrilling moments ahead for fans globally.
