{"id":38902,"date":"2026-01-25T06:35:27","date_gmt":"2026-01-25T11:35:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/"},"modified":"2026-01-25T06:35:27","modified_gmt":"2026-01-25T11:35:27","slug":"champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/","title":{"rendered":"Champions League Power Rankings: Real Madrid Faces Ongoing Struggles, Manchester City in a Bind, while Arsenal Holds Steady at the Summit"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_74 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#1_Arsenal_%E2%80%93\" >1. Arsenal (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#2_Bayern_Munich_%E2%80%93\" >2. Bayern Munich (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#3_PSG_2\" >3. PSG (+2)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#4_Barcelona_-1\" >4. Barcelona (-1)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#5_Manchester_City_-1\" >5. Manchester City (-1)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#6_Inter_%E2%80%93\" >6. Inter (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#7_Real_Madrid_%E2%80%93\" >7. Real Madrid (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#8_Atletico_Madrid_%E2%80%93\" >8. Atletico Madrid (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#9_Atalanta_%E2%80%93\" >9. Atalanta (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#10_Chelsea_1\" >10. Chelsea (+1)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#11_Liverpool_-1\" >11. Liverpool (-1)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#12_Olympique_Marseille_%E2%80%93\" >12. Olympique Marseille (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#13_Newcastle_%E2%80%93\" >13. Newcastle (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#14_Borussia_Dortmund_%E2%80%93\" >14. Borussia Dortmund (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#15_Napoli_%E2%80%93\" >15. Napoli (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#16_Juventus_1\" >16. Juventus (+1)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#17_Galatasaray_-1\" >17. Galatasaray (-1)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#18_Bayer_Leverkusen_%E2%80%93\" >18. Bayer Leverkusen (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#19_PSV_%E2%80%93\" >19. PSV (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#20_Sporting_CP_%E2%80%93\" >20. Sporting CP (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#21_Benfica_2\" >21. Benfica (+2)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#22_AS_Monaco_%E2%80%93\" >22. A.S. Monaco (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#23_Tottenham_-2\" >23. Tottenham (-2)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#24_Club_Brugge_%E2%80%93\" >24. Club Brugge (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#25_Copenhagen_%E2%80%93\" >25. Copenhagen (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#26_Kalabagh_%E2%80%93\" >26. Kalabagh (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#27_Eintracht_Frankfurt_%E2%80%93\" >27. Eintracht Frankfurt (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#28_Union_Saint-Gilloise_%E2%80%93\" >28. Union Saint-Gilloise (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#29_Athletic_Club_%E2%80%93\" >29. Athletic Club (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#30_Villarreal_%E2%80%93\" >30. Villarreal (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#31_Pathos_%E2%80%93\" >31. Pathos (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#32_Slavia_Prague_%E2%80%93\" >32. Slavia Prague (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#33_Olympiakos_%E2%80%93\" >33. Olympiakos (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#34_BodoGlimt_%E2%80%93\" >34. Bodo\/Glimt (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#35_Ajax_%E2%80%93\" >35. Ajax (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/2026\/01\/25\/champions-league-power-rankings-real-madrid-faces-ongoing-struggles-manchester-city-in-a-bind-while-arsenal-holds-steady-at-the-summit\/#36_Kairat_%E2%80%93\" >36. Kairat (&#8211;)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<div>\n<p><span class=\"link\">Champions League kicks off for the 2025-26 season<\/span> This week featured six matches spanning from September to December 2025. Arsenal is currently at the top of the Premier League, while Manchester City is encountering difficulties post their <span class=\"link\">loss in the Manchester derby<\/span>. Additionally, Real Madrid is inching closer to the top of La Liga following a defeat to Barcelona, despite some internal challenges that led to a managerial change. Meanwhile, the Serie A title competition remains intense, and Bayern Munich has once again dominated the Bundesliga. Let\u2019s dive into the weekly power rankings.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Arsenal_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>1. Arsenal (&#8211;)  <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The Gunners continue to demonstrate their strength as the leading team in Europe. Despite a draw with Nottingham Forest over the weekend, they now hold a seven-point advantage over Manchester City in the Premier League, edging closer to their long-awaited Premier League trophy, which has eluded them for over two decades. Step by step.<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleShortcode-container\">\n<div class=\"ArticleShortcode-text\">\n<p>Arsenal&#8217;s new midfielder is evolving in surprising ways, with Martin Zvimendi adding goals to his repertoire.<\/p>\n<p>                james benge                <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"ArticleShortcode-imageContainer\">\n<figure class=\"ArticleShortcode-image img\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" alt=\"Arsenal's new midfielder is evolving unexpectedly, with Martin Zvimendi adding to his goal tally\" src=\"https:\/\/sportshub.cbsistatic.com\/i\/r\/2026\/01\/15\/34559fb4-2bc1-43b9-b8f3-49dfcd417238\/thumbnail\/270x152\/3da6cefcffe31fb55e762cf726dc645e\/untitled-design-2026-01-15t125006-320.png\" loading=\"lazy\" height=\"152\" width=\"270\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Bayern_Munich_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>2. Bayern Munich (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>This team has been showing exceptional performances week after week. They are currently 11 points ahead of Borussia Dortmund, having netted 71 goals in just 18 German league matches, effectively placing them on the brink of clinching another Bundesliga title. Yes, I confirmed these numbers before finalizing the rankings.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_PSG_2\"><\/span>3. PSG (+2)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Under Luis Enrique, the team is gradually finding its form as it heads into critical months of the season. With Achraf Hakimi back from AFCON, this squad is poised to be Champions League contenders once again after securing their first title last season. Keep an eye on them.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Barcelona_-1\"><\/span>4. Barcelona (-1)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The loss to Real Sociedad is particularly disappointing as it not only cost them valuable points in La Liga, but also puts them a single point ahead of Real Madrid. While it\u2019s not catastrophic, it does highlight the emergence of their historical rivals as a threat.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Manchester_City_-1\"><\/span>5. Manchester City (-1)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Experiencing disappointment after losing to Manchester United, Josep Guardiola&#8217;s team has had a season filled with inconsistencies that threaten their Premier League aspirations. Although injuries haven&#8217;t severely hampered them, they opted to sign Premier League talents Antoine Semenyo and Marc Guehi during the winter transfer window to strengthen their lineup.<\/p>\n<div class=\"ArticleShortcode-container\">\n<div class=\"ArticleShortcode-text\">\n<p>Marc Guehi\u2019s transfer to Manchester City adds resilience to Pep Guardiola&#8217;s efforts to rebuild following injuries.<\/p>\n<p>                Pardeep Khatri                <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"ArticleShortcode-imageContainer\">\n<figure class=\"ArticleShortcode-image img\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" alt=\"Marc Guehi's transfer to Manchester City enhances depth in Pep Guardiola's rebuilding effort post-injuries\" src=\"https:\/\/sportshub.cbsistatic.com\/i\/r\/2026\/01\/19\/8d439b14-e3aa-4c91-9d09-50f0753f8451\/thumbnail\/270x152\/c5156c1b51cc6fb5943d4ff8e1e0e046\/untitled-design-2026-01-19t190742-754.png\" loading=\"lazy\" height=\"152\" width=\"270\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Inter_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>6. Inter (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Currently leading Serie A with a three-point cushion over AC Milan, the outcome of their upcoming matches against Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund will determine whether they secure a top-eight position or enter Champions League playoffs. Avoiding extra matches in February would be crucial for maintaining their lead against AC Milan.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Real_Madrid_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>7. Real Madrid (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>It&#8217;s been a whirlwind week for them. After dismissing Xabi Alonso due to a poor start, they appointed Alvaro Arbeloa as their new head coach. Following a disappointing Copa del Rey debut against Albacete, they managed to secure a 2-0 home win against Levante, albeit amidst crowd discontent, as fans expressed frustration with players like Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Atletico_Madrid_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>8. Atletico Madrid (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>This season has been a letdown for both Diego Simeone and Atletico Madrid. Fans had higher expectations following the summer transfer window, but inconsistency has hindered their challenges for La Liga supremacy.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Atalanta_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>9. Atalanta (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Since Raffaele Palladino took charge, Atalanta has witnessed significant improvements. After an underwhelming start under Ivan Djuric, Palladino has guided the team back into contention for a Europa League spot and they aim to push for a top-eight finish in the next two weeks. Although their title ambitions may be dashed, they still have a chance for a surprising Champions League appearance.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Chelsea_1\"><\/span>10. Chelsea (+1)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>I must admit, I didn\u2019t expect Liam Rosenior to have such a promising start in his first three matches with Chelsea, achieving a 2-1 record against Arsenal in the EFL semi-finals. It seems likely that Enzo Maresca\u2019s time as manager at the club has come to an end, but Rosenior will face numerous challenges ahead.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_Liverpool_-1\"><\/span>11. Liverpool (-1)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Arne Slott made strides over the past week in the Premier League, positioning Liverpool well for a fight for fourth place. They await the return of Mo Salah from AFCON, especially following his comments regarding his ongoing relationship with the current manager.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_Olympique_Marseille_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>12. <span>Olympique Marseille<\/span> (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Roberto De Zerbi&#8217;s side has emerged as one of Europe\u2019s intriguing teams this season, yet they are not guaranteed to lift any trophies soon. Currently sitting third in Ligue 1, they still have a shot at a top-eight finish in the Champions League.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_Newcastle_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>13. Newcastle (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>They\u2019ve turned a corner and are showcasing their potential. The question now is whether they can secure a spot in European competitions next season.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"14_Borussia_Dortmund_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>14. <span>Borussia Dortmund<\/span> (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>With their Bundesliga duties nearly wrapped up, Dortmund is shifting focus to the Champions League in the coming league phase, aiming to circumvent the playoffs in February.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15_Napoli_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>15. Napoli (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Antonio Conte&#8217;s squad continues to grapple with a significant injury crisis that may impact their Champions League ambitions. Recent injuries to Matteo Politano and Amir Rahmani, along with the potential departure of Lorenzo Lucca to Nottingham Forest, are poignant reminders of their struggles this season.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"16_Juventus_1\"><\/span>16. Juventus (+1)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Luciano Spalletti&#8217;s management has yielded notable results as Juventus is inching back toward the top of the Serie A table, even after losing their last game against Cagliari. The clash against Benfica and rival Jose Mourinho is set to be a critical moment for both squads.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"17_Galatasaray_-1\"><\/span>17. <span>Galatasaray<\/span> (-1)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Viktor Osimhen is set to return after his AFCON semi-final absence, possibly boosting a team that stumbled against Fenerbahce in the Turkish Super Cup.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"18_Bayer_Leverkusen_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>18. <span>Bayer Leverkusen<\/span> (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>With managerial changes behind them, they\u2019re showing solid form under Kasper Urmand and don&#8217;t appear to be in need of re-hiring Xabi Alonso.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"19_PSV_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>19. PSV (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>A stellar season with 17 wins, 1 draw, and just 1 loss to Feyenoord, they hold a 16-point advantage. Finishing in the top 24 of the Champions League would further solidify their impressive performance.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"20_Sporting_CP_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>20. <span>Sporting CP<\/span> (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>They are performing commendably, but Porto\u2019s achievements in Portugal steal the spotlight.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"21_Benfica_2\"><\/span>21. <span>Benfica<\/span> (+2)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Jose Mourinho has managed to impart a short-term lift to the team, but the next two league matches against Juventus and Real Madrid will be pivotal to their progress.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"22_AS_Monaco_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>22. A.S. <span>Monaco<\/span> (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Another challenging season for AS Monaco; the glory days seem a distant memory. However, with the right management, they can aim for a resurgence next season.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"23_Tottenham_-2\"><\/span>23. Tottenham (-2)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The wave of managerial changes in 2026 has seen Chelsea and Real Madrid make headlines; will Tottenham be next in line?<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"24_Club_Brugge_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>24. <span>Club Brugge<\/span> (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>They\u2019re beginning to regain form, yet are four points behind Union SG in the league. There&#8217;s still a chance for them to capture the title and qualify for the Champions League playoffs, though expectations were different a few weeks back.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"25_Copenhagen_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>25. Copenhagen (&#8211;)  <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The victory against Villarreal in December sparked significant hope for qualification.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"26_Kalabagh_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>26. <span>Kalabagh<\/span> (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Their surprising start in the first few weeks has fizzled out.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"27_Eintracht_Frankfurt_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>27. <span>Eintracht Frankfurt<\/span> (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Weekly update: they have conceded 39 goals in 18 Bundesliga games. This level of performance is not expected from Champions League teams.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"28_Union_Saint-Gilloise_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>28. <span>Union Saint-Gilloise<\/span> (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>While their league phase seems out of reach for playoffs, they are leading the standings and can still capture the Jupiler Pro League, securing qualification for next season.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"29_Athletic_Club_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>29. <span>Athletic Club<\/span> (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Their season has been quite disappointing; I had high hopes for them, but it seems those expectations were misplaced.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"30_Villarreal_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>30. Villarreal (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>A strong Spanish team but surprisingly struggling in Europe. The reasons for this remain unclear.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"31_Pathos_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>31. <span>Pathos<\/span> (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Here\u2019s hoping they can return to playing more Champions League football after their debut season.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"32_Slavia_Prague_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>32. Slavia Prague (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Champions League football may not be their standard, as many predicted before the season began.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"33_Olympiakos_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>33. Olympiakos (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>I had hoped for a better outcome, but I&#8217;m questioning my expectations.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"34_BodoGlimt_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>34. Bodo\/Glimt (&#8211;)  <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>I remember them as one of the stronger teams in the Europa League, which is likely where they belong.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"35_Ajax_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>35. Ajax (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The team has been a major letdown this season, but they are slowly finding their way back in the Dutch league.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"36_Kairat_%E2%80%93\"><\/span>36. Kairat (&#8211;) <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>I mention this consistently, but I hope they return to the Champions League stage next season. Their away matches are particularly entertaining.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><strong>Fan Take:<\/strong> The return of the Champions League brings renewed excitement as teams strive for glory, making every match crucial for fans and clubs alike. With prominent clubs facing both challenges and triumphs, this season could reshape the future of European football and intensify rivalries worldwide.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Champions League kicks off for the 2025-26 season This week featured six matches spanning from September to December 2025. Arsenal is currently at the top of the Premier League, while Manchester City is encountering difficulties post their loss in the Manchester derby. Additionally, Real Madrid is inching closer to the top of La Liga following [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":38903,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[44,8404,276,270,112,40,486,97,564,106,46,1602,1717,1704,452,45,5290,1233,3188],"class_list":{"0":"post-38902","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-football","8":"tag-arsenal","9":"tag-bind","10":"tag-champions","11":"tag-city","12":"tag-faces","13":"tag-football","14":"tag-holds","15":"tag-league","16":"tag-madrid","17":"tag-manchester","18":"tag-news","19":"tag-ongoing","20":"tag-power","21":"tag-rankings","22":"tag-real","23":"tag-soccer","24":"tag-steady","25":"tag-struggles","26":"tag-summit"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/38902","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=38902"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/38902\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/38903"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=38902"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=38902"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sportsdaily.news\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=38902"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}