Since the Champions League’s inception, no side have managed to successfully defend their title, with 2014 winners Real Madrid having fallen short in the semi-finals the following campaign. Manchester United have come the closest, winning in 2007/08 before losing in the final a year later to Barcelona. Coincidentally enough, it’s the Catalan giants who are the current holders now seeking to make history, and here’s why they can deliver.
Nobody could argue Barcelona weren’t the best side in Europe by some distance last season – their 3-1 win in the final against Juventus proved their credentials emphatically. Barca weren’t without their flaws, but they boasted the best attack in the competition which ultimately proved key. This summer, the Spanish outfit seem to be the side best prepared to go all the way again in Europe, with their close competition still greatly lacking.
Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Chelsea are Barcelona’s biggest threat to their European title, but none of the aforementioned have strengthened their squad to realistically stand up to the Catalans. At Bayern, they replaced influential midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger with hot-head Chilean international Arturo Vidal, while manager Pep Guardiola has had major fallings out with players and staff.
Real Madrid suffered a highly disappointing campaign after such an incredible season in manager Carlo Ancelotti’s debut term. Los Blancos faded fast in Ancelotti‘s second season, ultimately costing him his job, while raising question marks on how far new boss Rafael Benitez can take them. Real aren‘t expected to threaten this season as a result.
Chelsea are a threat, and a side that won’t go away in Europe under manage Jose Mourinho. The Blues boss is meticulous in his planning for Champions League games, and will be desperate to triumph in the competition with Chelsea after so much heartbreak down the years. The Premier League holders aren’t making big changes to their squad this summer, which shows a sign of strength ahead of the new season.
Barcelona are sure to be challenged during their European journey, but having an attacking trio of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar guarantees goals in any game. The South American forwards are some distance ahead of the new prolific strike partnerships, bagging more than 120 goals collectively last season.
Barcelona are one side who haven’t lost any key regular first-team players this summer, and have retained the best strike force in the world for their troubles too. Can the Catalans retain the Champions League this season?
