The Champions League is back, and with it comes the late-night drama, goosebump-inducing anthems, and inevitable heartbreak. As the group stage unfolds and giants clash with underdogs, the question on everyone’s lips is simple: who’s going all the way this year?

Here are our five bold predictions for the 2023/2024 edition of Europe’s greatest club competition.

Winner: Manchester City (Again)

After finally breaking their curse last season, Pep Guardiola’s side look like they’ve only grown hungrier. With Erling Haaland still scoring goals like it’s a video game, and a midfield rebuilt around Rodri and new arrivals, City remain the most complete team in Europe. It’s always dangerous to back a defending champion, but right now, it feels more dangerous not to.

Finalists: Manchester City vs. Real Madrid

Football has a sense of narrative, and City vs. Madrid has become the defining European rivalry of the Guardiola era. Madrid, with Jude Bellingham lighting up the Bernabéu and their eternal Champions League aura, are built for knockout football. Don’t be surprised if we see another heavyweight showdown in Wembley’s final.

Top Scorer: Erling Haaland

This might be the least adventurous prediction of all time, but it’s hard to look past the Norwegian goal machine. Haaland thrives against European defences that aren’t used to his power, movement, and cold finishing. Unless Kylian Mbappé has something to say about it, expect Haaland to top the charts again.

Overachiever: Napoli

Last season they gave us fireworks with Osimhen, Kvaratskhelia, and a fearless attacking style. This time, the world knows their name, but that doesn’t mean they’ll fade away. Napoli have the talent to make another deep run, and with a kind draw, they could surprise Europe once again by reaching at least the semi-finals.

Underachiever: Paris Saint-Germain

It feels harsh, but PSG’s Champions League story is the same every year: big names, big spending, but often disappointing results. With Messi gone and Neymar also departing, Mbappé is carrying the weight almost alone. Their midfield looks stronger, but in a competition where tactical cohesion trumps star power, PSG may once again fall short of expectations.

Predictions in football are a dangerous game, this is a tournament that specializes in drama and shock exits. But if history has taught us anything, it’s that the Champions League will deliver unforgettable nights and at least one jaw-dropping storyline no one saw coming.

Who’s your pick for Champions League glory this season?