UEFA Champions League: Five Dark Horses Ready to Keep an eye on
As the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League group stage kicks off this Tuesday, excitement fills the air. While the new league format minimizes the chance for major upsets, several clubs are poised to surprise fans and pundits alike. Here are five dark horses to watch this season, each bringing unique strengths to the tournament.
AS Monaco: Youth Meets Experience
Monaco is eager to replicate the success of their last Ligue 1 title campaign, combining a youthful core with experienced internationals. Talents like Maghnes Akliouche and Mika Biereth are complemented by seasoned players such as Denis Zakaria and Aleksandr Golovin. The arrivals of Paul Pogba and Ansu Fati add an intriguing layer to their squad. Under coach Adi Hutter, Monaco plays an engaging 4-4-2 formation, emphasizing vertical play and quick one-touch passing. If they can keep their star players fit, they could make a deep run in the competition.
Tottenham Hotspur: Pragmatic and Purposeful
Since the appointment of Thomas Frank, Tottenham Hotspur has seen a resurgence in form, with promising results against top teams. The Spurs kicked off their domestic season with three wins from four matches and came close to lifting the UEFA Super Cup before falling to Paris Saint-Germain in a penalty shootout. With a solid defensive structure and effective counter-attacking play, Tottenham could shine against stronger opponents in the knockout stages.
Athletic Bilbao: Building on Early Success
Athletic Bilbao has opened their La Liga campaign with three wins from four matches and retained key players like Nico Williams, who recently signed a contract extension, and Oihan Sancet. Their smart summer additions, including Aymeric Laporte and Jesus Areso, have strengthened the squad. With continuity and familiarity in their style of play, Bilbao could surprise established teams in Europe this season.
Galatasaray: A Turkish Giant on the Rise
Galatasaray stands out as one of the strongest squads outside Europe’s traditional elite leagues. Under coach Okan Buruk, the Turkish champions have secured three consecutive Super Lig titles and maintain an impressive win percentage. With summer signings like Victor Osimhen, Leroy Sane, and Ilkay Gundogan, they possess the depth and quality necessary to challenge in the Champions League. Their tactical versatility and attacking prowess make them a formidable contender.
Union Saint-Gilloise: A Promising Debut
Union Saint-Gilloise, the Belgian champions, are making their first appearance in the Champions League after gaining promotion just four years ago. With an unbeaten domestic start—five wins and two draws—they have scored 15 goals while conceding only three. This remarkable achievement sets the stage for a potentially surprising campaign against more experienced opponents. Known for their keen eye for talent, Union SG is part of the same ownership group as Brighton & Hove Albion, having successfully developed players who went on to succeed at larger clubs.
