Coach Ancelotti points out the club that can stop Real Madrid from winning the Champions League

Carlo Ancelotti highlighted the top candidates for the Champions League trophy this season, selecting just a single representative from the English Premier League.

The campaign 2025/26 Champions League has passed its first three matches, with teams like Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and Arsenal all starting impressively.

Real, PSG, and Arsenal have all won their opening three Champions League matches, as have Bayern Munich and Inter Milan. Meanwhile, coach Carlo Ancelotti continues to observe the tournament from afar, having previously dominated this competition with five titles in his illustrious managerial career.

Before the Champions League resumes next week, Ancelotti was asked about the clubs he considers top contenders for the trophy, naming four teams. The veteran coach picked Real Madrid, PSG, and Bayern Munich — all former clubs of his — along with Manchester City, who have won two of their three opening matches in this European campaign.

“From the other side of the globe, I still see familiar names among the favorites for the Champions League: Real Madrid, PSG, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich,” Ancelotti told Tutto Sport.

“In the first few rounds, we witnessed many high-scoring games, and some unexpected results have occasionally dampened viewers’ enthusiasm. The early phase of this year's tournament was expanded with hopes of increasing excitement, but the reality has fallen short of expectations. Nevertheless, we have to accept that.”

Ancelotti did not mention Liverpool, who recently regained winning form by defeating Aston Villa in the early hours of November 2nd.

Coach Arne Slot’s squad was eliminated from last season’s Champions League by PSG, the current champions after their convincing victory over Inter Milan in the final. With their superior strength last season, PSG remains a team that all opponents must be wary of. Luis Enrique’s side currently leads the Champions League standings after three matches.

Ancelotti also mentioned Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, winners of the historic treble in 2023. Additionally, Real Madrid is naturally still regarded as a formidable force. The "Los Blancos" secured the 2023/24 title, claiming their 15th Champions League trophy in their proud history.

Related article

Real Madrid take note, striker with 490 goals wants to join Barca Barcelona is planning a surprise move to sign Harry Kane in summer 2026, as the English striker has an attractive release clause at Bayern Munich. See more