Everyone was impatient to discover the new formula of the Champions League and the suspense promised by the UEFA leaders. And we could easily swear today that they are rubbing their hands at the scenario that is taking place, two days before the end of this new phase of the league, which brings together 36 teams and eliminates 12 definitively. Because while some big names are prancing at the top of the rankings, like Liverpool, Barcelona and Arsenal, others are in a hell of a mess.
Starting with Real Madrid, the defending champion, who probably did not think they would encounter so many problems. Casa Blanca is only 20th after 6 days, the fault of 3 defeats recorded against Lille, AC Milan and Liverpool. Qualification is obviously still possible but we must not miss out. Real Madrid’s luck lies in the calendar of its meetings. He still has to play Salzburg, one of the weakest teams in the competition, at home. Then a trip to Brest on the last day. Brestois who are certainly uninhibited, but who should not a priori be up to the task.
A PSG-Man City that will be worth gold
Remember that beyond 24th place, all teams will be eliminated, and will not be transferred to the Europa League. Manchester City is 22nd at the end of the 6th day, with 8 points. The defeat to Juventus proved that the team led by Guardiola was not healed. The winter transfer window will probably be an effective dressing, before the duel which will make all of Europe salivate. Because the Citizens’ next match will be played at the Parc des Princes, against PSG, on January 22. A PSG currently 25th in the ranking, obliged to take points to avoid risking elimination.
Woe to the loser? They will each have one last match to try to protect themselves from enormous disappointment. For Manchester City, it will be the reception of Bruges, which is currently 19th. For PSG, it will be a trip to Stuttgart, a club which has the same number of points (7) and which will also be at stake for its survival. Not easy.
- Real Madrid schedule
- Manchester City schedule
- PSG calendar
