Gary Lineker has given his verdict on this season’s Champions League, naming Real Madrid among the strongest teams left in the competition while overlooking Arsenal due to their injury struggles.

Despite Arsenal finishing the group stage with an impressive 19 points, Lineker does not see them as serious contenders, pointing to their injury crisis. “They’ve had a great run in the group stage, but the injuries have hit them hard. I can’t see them going all the way this year,” he said, referencing the absence of key players like Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Gabriel Martinelli.

The former England striker believes the trophy could still return to the Premier League, with Liverpool and Manchester City as top contenders. “Liverpool are obviously one of the favourites. They have the squad and the experience to go all the way,” he stated. However, he also backed Real Madrid as a major force, acknowledging their formidable presence in the competition.

When discussing Manchester City, Lineker admitted their struggles in the Premier League but still considered them dangerous in Europe. “Man City have had a difficult season in the league, but if they can get past Real Madrid, they’ll be a real threat in Europe,” he said. The tie between Madrid and City could prove to be the defining battle of the tournament.

Lineker also highlighted Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan as potential challengers, praising their performances. “Atletico Madrid are always a danger in Europe, and Inter Milan have been impressive this season. They’ve got what it takes to make a deep run,” he noted.

Paris Saint-Germain were another team he mentioned, though he remained unconvinced by their ability to go all the way. “PSG are much improved, but I still have doubts about whether they can go all the way. If you asked me at the start of the season, I would have said they have no chance,” he concluded.

With Real Madrid set to face another crucial European test, they remain among the favourites to claim yet another Champions League crown.