The 2024/25 Champions League season promises to be one of the most thrilling yet, not just because of the calibre of teams involved, but due to a significant overhaul in the tournament's structure. With the draw for the new-look group phase recently concluded, fans and pundits alike are speculating on which of the 36 competing teams will ultimately lift the prestigious trophy come May.

As the competition kicks off, we're treated to more high-stakes matches earlier in the season, thanks to the new Swiss model format, which pits teams against a more diverse set of opponents over an extended group stage. This format ensures more top-quality clashes, more unpredictability, and a whole lot more excitement.

But with all the changes, who is best poised to navigate this new landscape and secure victory? To delve deeper into this, we turn to an expert in football content and betting, Tyler Morris, the head of football content at Bettingtips4You.com.

Q&A with Tyler Morris, Head of Football Content at BettingTips4You.com

Q: Tyler, with the Champions League adopting this new format, how do you think it will affect the competition and which team do you see coming out on top?

Tyler Morris: The new format certainly adds a fresh dynamic to the Champions League. The Swiss model, with its extended group phase, will challenge teams in different ways. There's less room for error now, and consistency across these eight games will be crucial. The additional fixtures mean that squad depth and management will play a bigger role than ever before. Teams that can maintain their form and manage player rotations effectively will have the upper hand.

As for the winner, it's hard to look past Real Madrid. They've been perennial contenders and their record in this competition speaks for itself. With the additions they've made, particularly bringing in Kylian Mbappé, they seem even more formidable. Mbappé's hunger for Champions League success combined with Real's experience makes them my favourites. Manchester City, though, are not far behind. Pep Guardiola's side are well-equipped to handle the rigours of this new format, and their possession-based style should serve them well over the longer group phase.

Q: Do you think this new format will benefit any particular teams or leagues?

Tyler Morris: I think the teams with larger squads and more resources, like those from the Premier League and La Liga, will benefit. The likes of Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich are used to deep runs in multiple competitions, so this longer, more demanding format might play into their hands. Conversely, it could be more challenging for teams from less competitive leagues or those with thinner squads, as they'll struggle to maintain the necessary level of performance over a prolonged period.

Analysis: Who Will Win the 2024/25 Champions League?

With the insights from Tyler Morris in mind, it's worth taking a closer look at the main contenders for this season’s Champions League title.

Real Madrid

Real Madrid enters this season as the team to beat. The Spanish giants have an unparalleled history in the Champions League, having won it 15 times, including last season’s triumph at Wembley. Their summer signings have only strengthened their position, with the acquisition of Kylian Mbappé being a particularly significant coup. Mbappé’s arrival adds even more firepower to an already potent attack, and when you consider the talents of Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham, it’s easy to see why they are favourites.

Madrid's experience in navigating the latter stages of this competition, coupled with their ability to perform under pressure, makes them formidable opponents. Carlo Ancelotti, the most successful manager in Champions League history, knows exactly how to get the best out of his squad in this tournament. Expect them to be in the final mix once again.

Manchester City

Manchester City, the current Premier League champions, are another team heavily tipped to go all the way. City’s style of play is perfectly suited to the Champions League, particularly with the new format’s emphasis on consistency. Pep Guardiola’s meticulous approach to football means that his side rarely falter over a series of games, and their depth in quality allows them to rotate effectively without losing momentum.

However, City’s Achilles' heel has often been their performances in the knockout stages, where unexpected lapses have cost them dearly. If they can maintain their focus and carry their league form into Europe, they have every chance of winning their first Champions League title.

Arsenal and Bayern Munich

Arsenal’s resurgence under Mikel Arteta sees them as serious contenders this year. The Gunners are playing some of the best football in Europe, with a youthful, dynamic squad that can challenge any team. Their attacking style and strong defensive organisation make them a team to watch, though their lack of recent experience in the latter stages of the competition could be a drawback.

Bayern Munich, on the other hand, are always in the conversation when it comes to potential winners. The Bavarians have a rich history in the Champions League and possess the quality and experience to navigate the tournament's challenges. Their group stage draw looks favourable, and if they can avoid injuries, they have the capability to go deep into the competition.

Conclusion: A Battle Between the Giants

As we head into what promises to be a captivating Champions League season, the battle lines are drawn between Europe’s footballing giants. Real Madrid and Manchester City stand out as the leading contenders, with their experience, depth, and quality setting them apart in this new format. However, in football, nothing is certain, and with the likes of Arsenal, Bayern Munich, and even a resurgent Liverpool in the mix, fans are in for a thrilling ride all the way to the final in Munich.

The new format has undoubtedly increased the stakes, and while it may favour the more established clubs, it also opens the door for surprises. One thing is clear: this will be a Champions League season like no other.