UEFA Champions League 2013: How do the teams stack up?

The Italian clubs looks quietly confident

Will the Italian teams surprise everyone?

There are only three Italian clubs in the Champions League as it kicks off and all of three of them couldn’t be in more differing positions. Whilst Juventus would have been delighted with the draw, the same cannot be said for the other two sides. Under Antonio Conte, Juventus have been a joy to watch and with every major European team under new management this time around, it might very well be the year the Bianconeri have been waiting for. They have maintained their squad, whilst also adding some bite to their attack, which was found wanting last year.

Napoli, under Rafael Benitez, might prove to be the surprise package of the tournament and have a very good chance of going a long way in the tournament, if they manage to get out of their group. Even with the loss of Edinson Cavani, the Neapolitans look strong and look set to make an impact on the European stage, for the first time in their history.

Last, but not least are AC Milan. Whilst they don’t look very impressive and are in a group containing the Spanish and Dutch champions, the return of the prodigal son “Kaka” might well see them through the group. And in a one-off game, they are a match for anybody and will be hoping to add another European crown to their kitty.