The 2025-26 Champions League returns this week with every team poised to play simultaneously during the final league phase.

While Arsenal and Bayern Munich have already secured places in the top eight, other teams are still competing for playoff positions. Meanwhile, teams like Eintracht Frankfurt, Villarreal, Slavia Prague, and Kairat Almaty have been eliminated from contention.

1. Arsenal

Still the top team in Europe, Arsenal faced a surprising defeat against Manchester United, highlighting the need for focus as they aim for their first Premier League win in over 20 years.

2. Bayern Munich

Despite losing against Augsburg, they rank among the best and have an eight-point buffer in the Bundesliga, with qualifications for the knockout stages secured.

3. PSG

After topping Ligue 1, PSG is poised for a crucial match against Newcastle that will determine their direct advancement into knockout stages.

4. Barcelona

Lamine Yamal’s impressive goal reaffirms Barcelona’s position among Europe’s elite as they seek to secure their place in the Champions League’s top eight against FC Copenhagen.

5. Manchester City

City struggles persist as they transition under management uncertainty, needing to capitalize on their recent victory against Wolverhampton.

6. Real Madrid

A fruitful start under Alvaro Arbeloa has seen Real Madrid secure three wins in a week, positioning them well moving forward.

7. Inter

Despite a poor showing against top teams, Inter leads in Serie A but needs to face challenges head-on to succeed in Champions League knockouts.

8. Atletico Madrid

Traditionally resilient, Diego Simeone’s squad is currently in contention for key positions in their league.

9. Chelsea

The revival under Liam Rosenior could be critical for Chelsea’s European ambitions.

10. Atalanta

Raffaele Palladino’s leadership has seriously improved Atalanta’s standings and prospects.

Additional Highlights:

• Liverpool struggles with consistency amid recent victories and losses, particularly against Bournemouth.
• Eddie Howe’s Newcastle must navigate a key match against PSG as they aim to solidify their ranking.
• Olympique Marseille faced tough competition losing to Liverpool but managed a victory against Lens.

This week’s matches are pivotal for many teams as they push toward the knockout stages of the Champions League.