UEFA predictions: how will the English clubs fare?

The new Champions League season is almost here, and for the first time, six Premier League clubs will feature in Europe’s elite competition. The expanded 36-team league phase begins on 16 September, with the final set for Budapest’s Puskas Arena on 30 May 2026. Holders Paris St-Germain will defend their crown, while Real Madrid continue to lead UEFA’s coefficient rankings. But all eyes in England will be on how their six representatives cope under the spotlight.

Here are some predictions as per the BBC:

Arsenal

After reaching last season’s semi-finals for the first time in 16 years, Arsenal arrive with renewed confidence. Mikel Arteta’s side dismantled Real Madrid en route to the last four before falling to eventual winners PSG. Heavy summer spending on Victor Gyokeres, Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke has strengthened their forward line. With pressure mounting to end a five-year trophy drought, Arsenal look capable of another deep run and could be genuine contenders for a maiden Champions League crown.

Chelsea

Back in the competition after two years away, Chelsea return as both Club World Cup and Conference League champions. Their CWC victory over PSG showed they can compete at the highest level again. Enzo Maresca has reshaped the attack with Joao Pedro, Liam Delap and Jamie Gittens, aiming to re-establish Chelsea as a European powerhouse. With a strong pedigree in continental competitions, the Blues should comfortably navigate the league phase and target the quarter-finals.

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Liverpool

Premier League champions Liverpool will want redemption after a last-16 exit to PSG last season. Arne Slot’s men topped the league phase but faltered early in knockouts. This summer they invested heavily, bringing in Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez, underlining ambitions for an eighth European Cup. Ranked fifth by UEFA, Liverpool look well-equipped to reach the latter stages, with at least a semi-final appearance expected.

Manchester City

A disappointing 2024-25 saw City finish trophyless and bow out to Real Madrid in the knockout play-offs. Pep Guardiola must now reshape his team without Kevin de Bruyne, but reinforcements in Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Ait-Nouri add fresh options. While City may lack their usual dominance, their squad depth still makes them a threat. A quarter-final spot seems a realistic target, though another Champions League triumph looks less certain.

Newcastle United

Back on Europe’s biggest stage for only the second time in two decades, Newcastle are outsiders. Their famous 4-1 win over PSG in 2023-24 proved they can rise to the occasion, but modest summer business and uncertainty over striker Alexander Isak raise concerns. Still, St James’ Park remains one of the most intimidating venues in Europe. Progressing beyond the league phase will be challenging, but Newcastle could spring surprises.

Tottenham Hotspur

Spurs return via Europa League glory, but new boss Thomas Frank faces his Champions League debut. Reinforcements Joao Palhinha and Mohammed Kudus add quality, and early domestic form has been encouraging. Tottenham’s relatively low UEFA ranking suggests a difficult campaign, but if Frank’s side adapt quickly, they could advance to the knockouts.

Verdict

Liverpool and Arsenal appear best placed for deep runs, Chelsea and City should reach the latter stages, while Tottenham and Newcastle will battle to clear the league phase. For the Premier League’s six, Europe promises drama, pressure, and opportunity.

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