Valdas Dambrauskas, a former Who Wants To Be A Millionaire contestant, earned his coaching badges in England with his game winnings. On Thursday, he will stand on the sidelines at Old Trafford as Sabah faces Manchester United in their first Champions League appearance. Sabah, champions in Azerbaijan last season, progressed through four playoff rounds to qualify, defeating teams from Wales, Finland, Denmark, and Israel.
The Champions League, now in its expanded format, brings new and unexpected participants like Sabah, formed only in 2017. The team will also compete against giants like Barcelona, Arsenal, Napoli, and Borussia Dortmund. They aspire to emulate Sheriff Tiraspol’s famous victory over Real Madrid in 2021.
Other newcomers include Norway’s Viking and Austria’s LASK. Remarkably, Como has risen from Serie A’s fourth tier in 2019 to the Champions League, eliminating Milan and Juventus. Managed by Cesc Fabregas, Como will face Barcelona, PSG, and others in their campaign.
PSG’s dominance continues, despite doubts arising from a shaky start in Ligue 1. Luis Enrique leads a team with recent accolades, including Ousmane Dembele’s Ballon d’Or win. However, skepticism surrounds goalkeeper Matvey Safonov, and squad depth remains in question following significant summer sales.
PSG’s strategy, discipline, and patience have propelled them to success, retaining the Champions League despite key departures.
Arsenal, last season’s runners-up, are keen on capturing their maiden Champions League win. Mikel Arteta’s team has grown stronger with each campaign, though the absence of major signings like Vinicius Junior and Julian Alvarez could impact their attacking prowess.
Barcelona, under Hansi Flick, strengthened their squad with Rodri, aiming to improve game control. Despite missing out on Julian Alvarez and facing key departures, they maintain an explosive attack, scoring 17 goals in their first four La Liga matches. Meanwhile, Real Madrid, led by Jose Mourinho, boast speed and skill in attack, with Kylian Mbappe aiming for a Ballon d’Or.
Elsewhere, Bayern Munich remains a formidable challenger, with new acquisitions bolstering their lethal offense. Inter Milan also aims for Champions League success, adding English talents John Stones, Curtis Jones, and Djed Spence to boost their squad.