Date: September 18, 2024, 4:00 PM GMT
Executive Summary: The UEFA Champions League has kicked off its new season with a flurry of action and controversy. The new format, with more teams and more games, has been met with mixed reactions. Some fans and pundits believe the new format dilutes the competition’s allure, while others are excited by the increased opportunities for smaller clubs. The opening week has seen some thrilling matches, including a dominant performance by Bayern Munich, a dramatic comeback by Liverpool, and a stunning debut for Real Madrid’s young star, Endrick.
Champions League News
Alisson Laments New UCL Format
Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker has criticized the new Champions League format, arguing that it puts too much strain on players. "Nobody asks the players," he said, lamenting the increased number of games. This sentiment has been echoed by other players and managers, raising concerns about player burnout and the potential impact on the quality of play.
The Guardian (1 day ago), ESPN (1 day ago)
Can Anyone Stop Real Madrid or Man City?
With the new Champions League season underway, ESPN has ranked all 36 participating teams, placing Real Madrid and Manchester City at the top. Both teams have shown incredible strength in recent years, and their dominance is expected to continue. But can anyone challenge them?
ESPN (1 day ago)
New Champions League Format: A Diluted Allure?
The new Champions League format has been met with mixed reactions. While some are excited about the expanded competition, others believe it dilutes the allure of the tournament. The Independent argues that the opening night did not live up to the hype, with underwhelming performances and a lack of unpredictability.
The Independent (5 hours ago)
San Siro’s Bleak Ennui
Liverpool’s victory over AC Milan at the San Siro was a stark reminder of the potential consequences of the new Champions League format. The Telegraph reports that the match was played out in a listless atmosphere, with empty seats and a lack of excitement.
The Telegraph (9 hours ago)
Champions League: More Thrashings Ahead?
The new Champions League format has been criticized for potentially leading to more lopsided matches. Football España suggests that the rule changes, particularly the increased number of teams, could make it easier for dominant clubs like Bayern Munich to dominate their groups.
Football España (6 hours ago)
Key Matches
Real Madrid 3-1 VfB Stuttgart
Real Madrid began their Champions League campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over VfB Stuttgart. Endrick, the highly-touted Brazilian teenager, scored his first Champions League goal in the match.
Managing Madrid (7 hours ago)
Liverpool 3-1 AC Milan
Liverpool returned to the Champions League with a resounding victory over AC Milan. The match was a thrilling affair, with Liverpool coming back from a goal down to secure a crucial win.
90Min.com (4 hours ago)
Bayern Munich 9-2 Dinamo Zagreb
Bayern Munich made a statement in their Champions League opener, demolishing Dinamo Zagreb 9-2. The result underscored Bayern’s status as one of the favorites to win the competition.
Bavarian Football Works (4 hours ago)
Manchester City vs. Inter Milan
The 2023 Champions League final rematch is set to take place on September 18th, with Manchester City hosting Inter Milan. The match is sure to be a highly anticipated clash between two of Europe’s top clubs.
Sports Illustrated (54 minutes ago)
Arsenal vs. Atalanta
Arsenal will face Atalanta in their Champions League opener. The Gunners are looking to build on their impressive recent form and make a deep run in the competition.
Arsenal.com (11 hours ago)
YouTube Highlights
Rodgers Finally Feels Ready to Take on Champions League Challenge
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers discusses his team’s preparation for the Champions League.
A Celtic State of Mind (3 hours ago)
(Video length: 1:03:19)
🔴AC Milan vs Liverpool (1-3) Extended HIGHLIGHTS
Highlights from the thrilling match between AC Milan and Liverpool.
SPORTS EXTRA (7 hours ago)
(Video length: 3:59)
AMAZING GOALS 💫💥 | INTER HISTORY | CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
A compilation of some of Inter Milan’s most memorable goals in the Champions League.
Inter (6 hours ago)
(Video length: 2:04)
Why Manchester City are favourites to win the Champions League
Sky Sports Football analyzes why Manchester City are considered the favorites to win the Champions League.
Sky Sports Football (5 hours ago)
(Video length: 3:32)
Jude Bellingham being patient for Real Madrid in Champions League
TNT Sports discusses Jude Bellingham’s impact on Real Madrid in the Champions League.
TNT Sports (8 hours ago)
(Video length: 2:22)
Champions League: Looking Ahead
The new Champions League season is off to a thrilling start, with more excitement and drama to come. The competition has been reinvigorated with its new format, but it remains to be seen how the changes will impact the overall quality of the tournament. With the likes of Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich vying for glory, the 2024/25 season promises to be one of the most memorable in recent years.
