Before the kickoff of the Champions League (CL), we’ve put together the latest updates on Europe’s biggest clubs—Arsenal, Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Liverpool. With injuries piling up, key players returning, and new signings set to debut, here’s how each team is shaping up ahead of their first match.
Arsenal｜Shaken by a String of Key Injuries
Arsenal have been troubled by injuries since the start of the season, and ahead of the CL opener, it is reported that captain Ødegaard and star winger Saka are both set to miss out. Including Havertz, injured in the opening match, and Saliba, who withdrew before the international break, several pillars of the squad are sidelined.
Last season’s campaign was also derailed by Saka’s absence, and once again this “injury crisis” could become a major obstacle in their European challenge. For manager Arteta, it’s a tough task of managing limited resources as he heads into a difficult away fixture.
Valverde: “Arsenal Are Title Contenders”
Athletic Club manager Valverde has rated Arsenal as one of the favorites to win the CL, citing their tactical cohesion and Arteta’s relentless drive to win. With new signings Zubimendi and Gyökeres to test themselves, the spotlight will be on whether Arsenal can prove their strength even without their stars.
Real Madrid｜Xabi Alonso’s CL Debut
Xabi Alonso: “A Special Stage”
Newly appointed Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso is finally set to take on the Champions League. Having won the competition as a player, he described the Bernabéu clash as “a special stage” and expressed his determination to start the campaign strongly. The focus will be on how he utilizes Mbappé, Vinícius, and Rodrygo in attack.
Bellingham & Camavinga Return Earlier Than Expected
The biggest boost is the return of Bellingham and Camavinga. Bellingham, initially expected to miss months after shoulder surgery, returned a month early and was named in the squad to face Marseille. Camavinga also recovered from an ankle injury, strengthening the midfield. While a few key players remain sidelined, all eyes are on how these new combinations will click.
Barcelona｜New No.10 Yamal Set to Miss the Opener
Barcelona’s new No.10, Lamine Yamal, looks likely to miss the CL opener. He played through groin pain during the international break and sat out the following La Liga match. Unless a miraculous recovery occurs, he is expected to miss the Newcastle clash as well.
Having already delivered goals and assists early in the season, his absence is a heavy blow. With his return date still uncertain, possibly missing the upcoming Getafe game too, fans’ concerns are growing.
De Jong Back, But Injuries Keep Piling Up
On the bright side, De Jong has returned to training and could feature against Newcastle. However, Gavi and Balde are also ruled out, leaving the team short of key players. With Raphinha on the right and an experienced option considered for the left, coach Flick’s tactical decisions will likely shape the match outcome.
Liverpool｜Record-Breaking £130m Striker Set for Debut
A £130m Signing
This summer, Liverpool splashed out £130 million—the highest fee ever paid in British football—to sign Isak. After missing the Burnley match due to fitness issues, manager Slot hinted he could play “around 45 minutes” against Atlético in the CL or in the upcoming Everton derby. His long-awaited debut is imminent.
Slot’s Rotation Choices Spark Debate
In the Burnley game, Slot’s decision to substitute Kerkez and Mac Allister at half-time raised questions. However, it was later explained as fitness management rather than tactical reasoning. With both the CL and the Merseyside Derby looming, Liverpool head into this stretch riding a wave of momentum after four straight wins.
Summary｜Key Talking Points Before CL Kickoff
- Arsenal: Key injuries to Ødegaard, Saka, and others put them in a crisis. Still, Valverde hails them as “title contenders.”
- Real Madrid: Alonso makes his CL debut. Early returns for Bellingham & Camavinga provide a huge lift.
- Barcelona: Yamal is set to miss the opener. De Jong returns, but multiple stars remain sidelined.
- Liverpool: Record £130m signing Isak close to debut. Slot’s rotation strategies also under the spotlight.
As Europe’s giants prepare for the Champions League stage, each carries a mix of concerns and hopes. From “injury crises” to “miracle comebacks” and the “arrival of mega signings,” this season’s opening matches promise no shortage of storylines. The question is: which team will seize the early momentum?
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