2024 Champions League Predictions and Odds: Atletico Madrid and Aston Villa as Long-Shot Picks
The 2024-25 UEFA Champions League promises excitement with a new format that replaces the traditional group stage with a league phase. In this format, 36 clubs will play eight matches against different opponents, with half at home and half away. The top eight teams will advance to the Round of 16, while teams ranked 9th to 24th will face off in a knockout playoff.
Top Contenders
Despite the change, Manchester City is the favorite to win the Champions League, with +280 odds on FanDuel. The reigning champions are closely followed by Real Madrid (+350), Arsenal (+700), Barcelona, and Bayern Munich (both at +1000).
While the favorites usually dominate, there’s potential for surprises, as seen in recent seasons where long-shot teams like Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan reached the finals.
Atletico Madrid is among our best bets to win the Champions League.AFP via Getty Images
Long-Shot Picks to Watch
2024-25 Champions League Predictions
Despite the new format, Manchester City remains the favorite to win, with odds of +280 on FanDuel. They are closely followed by Real Madrid at +350. Other top contenders include Arsenal (+700), Barcelona, and Bayern Munich (both at +1000).
However, with past runners-up like Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan entering as long shots, there’s potential for surprises. Here are two under-the-radar picks to consider:
Atletico Madrid (+3000, Caesars)
Atletico Madrid, a powerhouse in European competitions, has made key transfers, including Julian Alvarez, Conor Gallagher, and Alexander Sorloth, to strengthen their squad. With Diego Simeone at the helm, known for his ability to get the best from his players, Atletico’s path in the league phase looks manageable. Their toughest challenge is an away match against PSG, but home matches against RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen are within reach.
Aston Villa (100/1, BetMGM)
Aston Villa may be seen as an underdog, but under Unai Emery, a specialist in European tournaments, they have real potential. Emery led Villarreal to the 2022 Champions League semifinals and has years of experience in European competition. Villa will face tough opponents like Bayern Munich and Juventus, but they’ll play these matches at home, giving them a potential edge. With a talented roster and Emery’s tactical acumen, Villa could make a deep run in the tournament.
Conclusion
While Manchester City and Real Madrid are the top picks, teams like Atletico Madrid and Aston Villa could surprise, making them interesting long-shot bets in this new Champions League era.
