With the Champions League expanding, fans can expect more thrilling clashes between top talents.
Ollie Watkins
Aston Villa, having previously won the European Cup by defeating Bayern Munich in the 1982 final, will make its first appearance in the Champions League since the format was revamped and renamed in the 1992/93 season.
Finishing in the top four of the Premier League last season has granted Watkins the opportunity to experience the prestigious tournament. The forward enjoyed a stellar season under coach Unai Emery, netting 19 goals in the Premier League. He is expected to leave a significant mark in Villa’s inaugural Champions League campaign.
Michael Olise
In a short period, Michael Olise has risen to become one of Europe’s standout attacking stars. The Frenchman made his Premier League debut in 2021 after joining Crystal Palace from Reading. His impressive performances earned him numerous opportunities, and he contributed 16 goals and 25 assists during his time at Palace.
Olise’s form attracted the attention of several top clubs, but it was Bayern Munich that successfully secured the 22-year-old’s signature. Adjusting well to his new environment, Olise scored his first goal for Bayern in their 6-1 victory over Holstein Kiel. He will be looking to make an impact and find the net against Dinamo Zagreb in his Champions League debut.
Alexis Mac Allister
Midfielder Alexis Mac Allister played a crucial role in Argentina’s victories at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and this year’s Copa America. Despite his success on the international stage, he is set to experience the Champions League for the first time.
Interestingly, Mac Allister only had his first taste of European football last season when Liverpool reached the quarter-finals of the UEFA Europa League. The former Brighton player has made a significant impact at Anfield since his move last year and aims to win trophies with Liverpool this season.
Currently, Mac Allister is a key player in new coach Arne Slot’s tactical setup, starting all four Premier League matches and contributing to three victories. The Argentine star is likely to be featured from the start in Liverpool’s upcoming match against Milan.