As the Champions League grabs most of the headlines, Europe’s other two continental competitions quietly serve up some of the most entertaining, unpredictable football of the season. The Europa League and the Europa Conference League are where rising stars announce themselves, fallen giants look for redemption, and tactical battles often feel just as intense as anything on Tuesday or Wednesday nights.

With the 2023/24 season kicking off and squads largely settled, here are my predictions for how both competitions could unfold, from winners and finalists to surprise packages and potential disappointments.

Europa League Predictions

The Europa League once again boasts a strong mix of traditional heavyweights, Champions League drop-downs, and ambitious clubs who see this as a genuine route to silverware and Champions League qualification.

Predicted Winner: Liverpool

Liverpool dropping into the Europa League feels slightly unfair on the rest of the field. Even with squad rotation likely, Jürgen Klopp’s side have too much quality, depth, and European experience. Their intensity, especially at Anfield on Thursday nights, should carry them all the way.

Predicted Finalists: Liverpool & Atalanta

Atalanta are Europa League specialists at this point. Gian Piero Gasperini’s aggressive, high-energy system is tailor-made for knockout football, and they have enough attacking firepower to trouble anyone.

Predicted Top Scorer: Mo Salah (Liverpool)

If Salah stays fit and plays a healthy chunk of the competition, he’s the standout candidate. His efficiency in European games and Liverpool’s attacking volume should give him plenty of chances to rack up goals.

Overachievers: Brighton & Hove Albion

Brighton’s first-ever European campaign could be one of the stories of the season. Roberto De Zerbi’s fearless approach, technical midfield, and tactical flexibility make them a nightmare to play against, especially for more conservative sides.

Underachievers: Roma

José Mourinho’s European pedigree is undeniable, but Roma’s squad depth and domestic demands could catch up with them. Another deep run wouldn’t shock anyone, but an earlier-than-expected exit feels just as possible.

Conference League Predictions

The Conference League continues to grow in credibility, offering clubs a real chance at European glory and unforgettable nights under the lights.

Predicted Winner: Aston Villa

Unai Emery in a European competition is almost a cheat code. Villa have invested smartly, play with structure and intensity, and have a manager who knows exactly how to navigate two-legged ties. This competition feels made for them.

Predicted Finalists: Aston Villa & Fiorentina

Fiorentina return with unfinished business after falling short in last season’s final. Their technical quality and comfort in possession should once again take them deep into the tournament.

Predicted Top Scorer: Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)

Watkins’ movement, pace, and confidence make him a perfect fit for Conference League football. Against varied opposition and with Villa expected to go far, his goal tally could climb quickly.

Overachievers: Lille

Lille may not attract huge attention, but they’re well-coached, disciplined, and capable of controlling games. Expect them to frustrate bigger names and sneak into the latter stages.

Underachievers: AZ Alkmaar

AZ are always competitive, but balancing domestic ambitions with European travel could stretch them thin. A group-stage exit or early knockout defeat wouldn’t be a huge surprise.

Final Thoughts

The beauty of the Europa League and Conference League lies in their unpredictability. While big names often rise to the top, there’s always room for a surprise run, a breakout star, or a dramatic upset on a rainy Thursday night.

One thing feels certain heading into the 2023/24 season: these competitions will once again deliver drama, goals, and stories that deserve just as much attention as Europe’s top table.