The 2025-26 Champions League season has just kicked off, yet we can already draw some premature conclusions regarding the players and teams competing in this European tournament. Following several unexpected results, thrilling encounters, and spectacular goals scored during the first three days of the new campaign, it`s time to reflect on the initial takeaways. Yes, it`s a moment for bold speculations:
Rashford: Season`s MVP in the Making?
The Barcelona and England forward emerged as the evening`s hero at St. James` Park, netting his first two goals for the Catalan club and proving his continued ability to be among Europe`s elite players. This summer, the Englishman moved from Manchester United to Spain, and under Hansi Flick`s guidance, he could significantly improve his form and return to his career peak. His second goal against Newcastle served as a clear reminder that he can still become the champion many hoped for, and if circumstances align, he might even clinch the season`s MVP award.
Vinicius Jr. Should Consider Leaving Real Madrid
Real Madrid`s head coach, Xabi Alonso, opted to bench Vinicius Jr. for the Champions League opener against Olympique Marseille. This decision, however, proved ill-advised for the former Bayer Leverkusen manager, as the Brazilian star, coming on later in the match, showed he remains a pivotal player for Los Blancos. The Spanish giants boast a deep squad with talented young forwards like Rodrygo and Argentinian winger Franco Mastantuono, not to mention French superstar Kylian Mbappe. Nevertheless, Vinicius is still the player who can decide the outcome of such matches. If the coach continues to bench him, even if it was just the first cup game, he might consider seeking a club where he would be the undisputed face of the team.
Juventus Doesn`t Need Another Striker
On Tuesday, the Bianconeri played an incredible match against Borussia Dortmund, ending 4-4 in Turin. They managed to score two stoppage-time goals to avoid defeat in their Champions League opener. Serbian striker Dusan Vlahovic netted a brace and delivered the crucial assist to Lloyd Kelly, who scored the equalizer in the final minute, demonstrating that he is precisely the player Juventus requires right now. Despite his contract expiring in 2026, the Bianconeri should prioritize agreeing on a new deal with his representatives before it`s too late. He is Igor Tudor`s side`s most essential player, and there are few strikers globally who could adequately fill his shoes should he depart next summer as a free agent.
Simeone`s Era at Atletico Nears Its End
It was a disappointing evening at Anfield for Atletico Madrid and their Argentine coach Diego Simeone, as Los Colchoneros suffered a 3-2 defeat against Liverpool, conceding a late goal to Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk. Simeone displayed his full frustration during the post-match press conference and even after Liverpool`s goal, receiving a red card following an altercation with a Reds fan near the Atletico Madrid bench. The 2025-26 season has started slowly for Simeone, with only one win across all competitions so far. It is likely time for both parties to embark on a new chapter after nearly 15 years; he was appointed in 2011 and has since forged one of the most compelling legacies in the modern era.
Bayern Munich Will Win the Champions League
While many have tipped PSG, Manchester City, or Barcelona as the primary contenders for the tournament`s ultimate victory, Bayern Munich should not be overlooked. The team, managed by Vincent Kompany, enjoyed a robust summer transfer window and commenced the new season with three wins from three games. They also secured a 3-1 victory in their Champions League opener against Chelsea at the Allianz Arena. Bayern are a genuine title challenger, and having missed the opportunity to reach the Champions League final in their home stadium last season, they will be even more determined to succeed this year.
Kvaratskhelia: Next Ballon d`Or Winner?
While the 2025 Ballon d`Or awards are scheduled for Monday, September 22, with Ousmane Dembele being the most probable recipient, his PSG teammate, Kvicha Kvaratskhelia, is tipped to win the subsequent edition of this individual accolade. Following his January 2025 move from Napoli to PSG for approximately $70 million, his performances were instrumental in Luis Enrique`s side securing the treble, which included the club`s historic first Champions League title after a 5-0 final victory against Inter in Munich. In his European debut this season, Kvaratskhelia immediately made an impact with a stunning goal against Atalanta, demonstrating his inherent quality to one day hoist that trophy. It might not happen this year, but the next could very well be his time.
