Amidst the COVID pandemic, every sporting event had to be placed on hold. But as the world slowly returns to normalcy, many of our favorite competitions are coming back, albeit in empty stadiums.
And so, the Champions League returns this weekend. It is, without a doubt, the biggest and most competitive club competition in the world that every big player aspires to win. But who is going to win it this year?
With the Quarter Final Draw already in place, there are a few interesting scenarios for us to consider. Let us have a look at our favorites.
1.Bayern Munich
Bayern have a blistering front line with perhaps the most in-form player in the world in Lewandowski and the devastatingly quick Gnabry to support him.
Young players like Kimmich, Alfonso Davies add some exuberance to their game, and Thiago, Alaba, and Muller add the necessary experience.
They played right through Chelsea in the first leg and will face Barca or Napoli in the Quarters should they get through. Bayern can definitely beat both those sides and go to the Semis. They would face either City/Juve/Madrid there and those two games could be extremely exciting.
And after being denied a possible Ballon d'Or, Lewandowski has a lot to prove, and winning the Champions League to cap off this season could be the ultimate case for him being the best Football player in 2020.
2.PSG
With Neymar in steaming hot form and Mbappe back in a few weeks, PSG are looking devastating upfront.
And with a UCL draw that puts them against Atlanta in the Quarters and Atleti in the Semis, there is a lot of optimism regarding their chances.
They have an experienced GK, a resilient midfield imposer in Gueye, and the mercurial So Maria in midfield to boost their line-up.
Thomas Tuchel is a decent coach and could definitely capitalize on the slightly favourable draw.
This could well be the year that PSG achieve what they promise.
3. Manchester City
After beating Madrid at the Bernabeu, City is a team that can match the big guns. And having invested Millions in the side, Pep Guardiola is due a European triumph.
After a disappointing Premier League season, De Bruyne and his teammates have a lot to play for but need to get through the immensely experienced Madrid side followed possibly by the experienced Juve team to get to the semis.
While it may not be easy, winning the Champions League has never been that. And Pep Guardiola and his team may be motivated to do it this time. Who knows?
Our Verdict
The beauty of European Football at the highest level is that it is filled with match-winners that can win a game at any moment.
So predicting one winner in this UCL season is difficult. But if we had to pick one team to win the UCL this season, we would be inclined to pick Bayern Munich.
Besides having a strong attack, they also have a decent midfield with a nice mix of youth and experience that can help Lewandowski win the Champions League for his side.
Who do you think will win the Champions League this year? Share your comments below.