Kylian Mbappe to score on debut for Real Madrid; Milan crushed by Slot's Liverpool? 4 things that can happen as Champions League returns

The UEFA Champions League, the pinnacle of European club football, returns with a further-strengthened defending champions in Real Madrid and a reimagined format that promises added intrigue and drama.

Under the new format, teams will play eight matches in the new league phase (formerly known as group stage). Any given team will face eight fixtures against different teams, playing half of those matches at home and half of them away.

With the extended tally of fixtures and the possibility of playing varied oppositions, the 2024-25 season of the continental competition is expected to present intense footballing action right from the first matchday.

European heavyweights Liverpool and AC Milan locking horns; Hansi Flick's rampaging Barcelona setting sight on regaining European supremacy; two modern-day powerhouses in Manchester City and Real Madrid eyeing a flawless start - the opening round of fixtures is impregnated with narratives.

But before the fixtures get underway, here are four potential outcomes to watch out for:

---

#1 Kylian Mbappe set for electrifying start with Real Madrid

Kylian Mbappe will make his much-anticipated Champions League debut for Real Madrid as they face Bundesliga side VfB Stuttgart. Despite a somewhat rocky start to his career in Spain, the French superstar is no stranger to delivering when it matters the most.

Real Madrid, while not at their best in La Liga, will look to draw on their historic dominance in the Champions League. Stuttgart’s inexperience at this level could leave them vulnerable to Mbappe’s explosive abilities. If Real Madrid's supply line clicks, expect the Frenchman to announce his arrival on Europe’s biggest stage with a bang.

At 25, Mbappe already has 48 Champions League goals to his name; tonight he could crawl over the 50-mark on his maiden appearance with Real Madrid.

#2 Arne Slot's high-press Liverpool may overwhelm AC Milan

Liverpool FC suffered a defeat against Nottingham Forest FC on the weekend - Source: Getty

Saturated with Champions League heritage, the clash between AC Milan and Liverpool at the San Siro promises to be a captivating encounter, reviving memories of their famous finals in 2005 and 2007. Arne Slot’s Liverpool team, known for its relentless pressing and attacking football, will look to assert dominance over a Milan side still finding its identity under new manager Paulo Fonseca.

Milan’s defense may have found some rhythm in their recent 4-0 victory over Venezia, but Slot’s system could prove too intense for the Rossoneri to handle. Having lost to Nottingham Forest recently, Liverpool will be eager to bounce back in Europe, and Milan’s backline might struggle to cope with the intensity and pace of the Premier League giants.

If Liverpool click, Milan could find themselves chasing shadows.

#3 Sporting CP and Rúben Amorim could make a statement in Champions League

Rúben Amorim has transformed Sporting CP into a serious contender in the Portuguese league, but the time is now for them to announce their arrival at the continental level. After securing their first league title in three years, Sporting are now aiming to carry that momentum into the Champions League. They face Lille in their opening group-stage match, a fixture that could set the tone for their campaign.

Spearheaded by Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres, who has already notched eight goals this season, Sporting have the tools to surprise Europe’s elite. Amorim’s tactical acumen and the cohesion within the squad make them a dangerous team, capable of upsetting established sides.

Expect Sporting to make a real impact in the Champions League, starting with a strong showing against Lille.

#4 Injury-hit Arsenal could drop points against Atalanta

Arsenal trumped over Tottenham Hotspur FC on the weekend. - Source: Getty

Arsenal head into their clash with Atalanta dealing with a spate of injuries. While Declan Rice will be back in action after serving his domestic suspension, the Gunners will be without key playmakers like Martin Odegaard and Mikel Merino. There are also growing concerns over Bukayo Saka’s fitness, leaving Arsenal stretched as they face a formidable Atalanta side.

Atalanta, last season’s Europa League champions, are no strangers to upsetting big teams.

Furthermore, with Mikel Arteta needing to juggle his squad carefully ahead of a looming Premier League showdown with Manchester City, Arsenal could be vulnerable to a well-drilled Atalanta side.

Dropped points to start their Champions League wouldn’t be a shock given the Gunners’ current injury woes and congested fixture schedule.