10 Exciting Storylines to Watch in Champions League Gameweek 1 (2024/25)
The 2024/25 Champions League season kicks off with a new format and plenty of excitement. The league phase, replacing the traditional group stages, promises more matches, more drama, and more opportunities for Europe’s top teams to showcase their talent. With 18 games spread over three days, here are 10 key storylines to look out for as the road to Munich begins.
1. Thiago Motta’s First Big Test at Juventus
Juventus will begin their Champions League journey with a critical match against PSV Eindhoven. This will be a major test for new manager Thiago Motta, who took over this summer after impressing with Bologna. Expectations in Turin are always high, and Juventus fans will be eager to see how Motta handles European competition. PSV comes into this match in red-hot form, having scored 20 goals in their first five games of the season, making this an early must-watch encounter.
2. Erling Haaland Aims to Break Cristiano Ronaldo’s Record
Erling Haaland is just one goal away from reaching 100 goals for Manchester City, and if he scores against Inter Milan, he’ll surpass Cristiano Ronaldo’s record for the fewest games needed to hit a century for one club. Ronaldo took 105 games to score 100 goals for Real Madrid, and Haaland is currently sitting at 103 appearances. The Norwegian striker will be looking to make history in a repeat of last season’s final, where City defeated Inter to claim their first Champions League trophy.
3. Kylian Mbappé’s Champions League Debut for Real Madrid
All eyes will be on Kylian Mbappé as he makes his first appearance in the Champions League for Real Madrid. Despite Real’s solid start in La Liga, they’ve yet to hit their stride, and Mbappé’s form has been underwhelming by his usual standards. They face a tricky opening match against Bundesliga overachievers Stuttgart, led by young manager Sebastian Hoeness. Mbappé will need to step up and show that he can be the game-changer Real needs to kickstart their European campaign.
4. Bayern Munich’s Fresh Start After 2023/24 Disappointment
Bayern Munich are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2023/24 season with a revamped squad and a new manager, Vincent Kompany. They’ll begin their Champions League campaign against Dinamo Zagreb, a side known for upsetting bigger teams. With Kompany at the helm, Harry Kane leading the attack, and new signing Michael Olise adding flair on the wing, Bayern will want to send a message that they are back in the hunt for European glory.
5. Arsenal’s Injury Concerns Ahead of Atalanta Clash
Arsenal are back in the Champions League, but they face a tricky away fixture against Europa League champions Atalanta. The Gunners have been hit with several key injuries, with Martin Ødegaard, Bukayo Saka, and Mikel Merino all doubtful for this match. Manager Mikel Arteta will need to dig deep into his squad to manage this fixture, especially with a huge Premier League match against Manchester City looming on the horizon. Arsenal’s depth will be tested in what could be a season-defining week.
6. PSG’s New Era Post-Mbappé
Paris Saint-Germain has entered a new chapter following Kylian Mbappé’s departure, but they’ve looked strong under Luis Enrique’s management. PSG has won four out of four matches this season, with young stars like Bradley Barcola and João Neves stepping up. Their Champions League opener against Girona provides a great opportunity to prove they can compete at the highest level without their former talisman. A convincing win would send a message that PSG remains a force to be reckoned with in Europe.
7. Conor Gallagher’s Impact at Atletico Madrid
Conor Gallagher has quickly become a fan favorite at Atletico Madrid after his summer move from Chelsea. The English midfielder has already scored his first goal for the club and will be leading Diego Simeone’s side into a tough match against RB Leipzig. Gallagher’s energy and tenacity have made him a perfect fit for Simeone’s system, and Atletico fans will be expecting big things from their new star as they look to kick off their European campaign on the right foot.
8. Barcelona’s First Test Under the Champions League Lights
Barcelona has been flying high under new manager Hansi Flick, and they’ll face their first Champions League test of the season against Monaco. Barca has looked like one of Europe’s most in-form teams, but Monaco’s strong defense, which has conceded just one goal in four Ligue 1 games, could present a tough challenge. With Dani Olmo out injured, much of the attacking responsibility will fall on the shoulders of young star Lamine Yamal, who has been a revelation this season.
9. Pep Lijnders Takes Charge at Red Bull Salzburg
Pep Lijnders, former assistant to Jürgen Klopp at Liverpool, has taken charge at Red Bull Salzburg and is back for another crack at management. Salzburg is known for producing top young talents, and Lijnders will be tasked with guiding them through a tough Champions League campaign. Their first match against Sparta Prague will be a crucial test for Lijnders, as he looks to establish himself as a top-level manager in European football.
10. Can Viktor Gyökeres or Jonathan David Steal the Show?
Two of Europe’s most in-demand strikers, Viktor Gyökeres and Jonathan David, will go head-to-head when Sporting CP hosts Lille. Both players have been linked with moves to Europe’s elite clubs, and this Champions League matchup offers them a chance to showcase their talents on the biggest stage. Gyökeres already has eight goals this season, while David netted twice in the qualifying rounds. This duel between two rising stars could have a significant impact on the outcome of the game.
Conclusion: A Thrilling Start to the 2024/25 Champions League
The opening gameweek of the 2024/25 Champions League is set to deliver drama, excitement, and plenty of talking points. With new managers looking to make their mark, star players chasing records, and teams eager to assert their dominance, football fans are in for an action-packed week. Keep an eye on the key storylines mentioned above, and prepare for a thrilling start to the road to Munich.
