Frank Christian
Significant modifications are set to reshape the UEFA Champions League as the 2024/25 season approaches. The previous group stage has been replaced by a new “league phase” featuring 36 teams, adopting the Swiss Model to determine which teams will advance to knockout rounds. The scheduled draw on August 29 outlined initial matchups, with each team slated to compete in eight games—four at home and four away.
This upcoming season’s champion will need to thrive within this enlarged field, adapt to a new competition format, and navigate a notoriously packed fixture schedule.
The Sporting News provides a summary of the odds for the 2024/25 Champions League championship, outlining which teams are expected to compete for the trophy.
Champions League 2024/25 Odds
Manchester City remains the top pick for many, a trend consistent over the years. Despite claiming the title in 2023, the team has struggled to replicate that success in prior attempts.
Real Madrid, often underestimated by early oddsmakers, surged back into favor after winning last year’s title and securing star player Kylian Mbappe for the upcoming season, positioning them alongside Man City as strong contenders.
Arsenal and Liverpool are also in the discussion, while Paris Saint-Germain continues to rank within the top 10 contenders, despite Mbappe’s exit and their strategy shift away from a star-centric lineup. Separating the Italian clubs in the betting market is challenging, as Sporting CP is the leading team from outside the traditional Big 5 leagues.
| Club | Nation | Odds to win (BetMGM — USA) |
| Man City | England | +275 |
| Real Madrid | Spain | +300 |
| Arsenal | England | +900 |
| Bayern Munich | Germany | +1000 |
| Liverpool | England | +1200 |
| Barcelona | Spain | +1400 |
| PSG | France | +1600 |
| Bayer Leverkusen | Germany | +2000 |
| Inter Milan | Italy | +2000 |
| Atletico Madrid | Spain | +2500 |
| Borussia Dortmund | Germany | +3300 |
| AC Milan | Italy | +4000 |
| Juventus | Italy | +4000 |
| Aston Villa | England | +5000 |
| Girona | Spain | +6600 |
| Stuttgart | Germany | +6600 |
| RB Leipzig | Germany | +6600 |
| Bologna | Italy | +10,000 |
| Monaco | France | +10,000 |
| Sporting CP | Portugal | +10,000 |
| Lille | France | +10,000 |
| Brest | France | +15,000 |
| PSV | Netherlands | +15,000 |
| Feyenoord | Netherlands | +15,000 |
| Benfica | Portugal | +15,000 |
| Club Brugge | Belgium | +20,000 |
| Galatasaray | Turkey | +20,000 |
| RB Salzburg | Austria | +20,000 |
| Celtic | Scotland | +25,000 |
Predictions for the Champions League 2025
Recommended bets: Arsenal (+900 on BetMGM), Real Madrid (+300 on BetMGM)
Despite Manchester City’s prominence in recent betting trends, their status as the top European team has diminished. They still feature an elite starting lineup, yet their player depth has declined, leaving them reliant on key performers like Rodri and Erling Haaland, which poses risks if either were to get injured.
On the other hand, Arsenal is showing strength with a deep and talented squad. Signing Mikel Merino has bolstered their options, making them well-prepared for the demanding fixture calendar. With odds of +900, they present substantial value.
Real Madrid, while valued at +300, should not be overlooked. The defending champions have added Mbappe to an already formidable team, giving them one of the best offensive lineups globally. They remain a solid bet for the title.
Dark horse pick: PSG (+1600 on BetMGM)
Surprisingly, PSG’s recent changes might allow them to thrive without Mbappe. After significant reshuffling, the squad under Luis Enrique is poised for competition over commercial appeal. New stars like Ousmane Dembele and Bradley Barcola now have the chance to shine, supported by a strong midfield core. Despite losing Ugarte, they have confidence in Neves to fill that gap, making them a prominent challenger.
Avoid bets on: Man City (+275), Liverpool (+1200), Barcelona (+1400)
While Arsenal is gaining momentum, Manchester City and Liverpool appear more susceptible than in previous years. Liverpool’s loss of coach Jurgen Klopp and unresolved defensive weaknesses raise concerns. Meanwhile, City retains its strong starting lineup but lacks the necessary depth, mitigating their chances.
Barcelona has made additions like Dani Olmo but still grapples with various challenges, notably fitness issues concerning key players. Although they have improved, they are not strong enough to vie for the Champions League title.
Related Links
- Champions League Final 2025: Date and Venue
- Champions League Goal Records: All-Time Leaders
- Champions League Winners by Year
