Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Lille at Anfield on Tuesday secured their spot in the next round, placing Arne Slot’s team at the top of the new league table.
The Reds have won every Champions League match this season and could finish with a perfect record if they defeat PSV in the Netherlands next week. ..Continue Reading
Slot’s side might be feeling optimistic as other top contenders, like pre-season favorites Real Madrid and Manchester City, are lagging in 22nd and 24th places, respectively, ahead of their match against PSG.
Ballack, a former Germany international, sees a golden opportunity for Liverpool to claim the trophy for the 7th time.
“Judging by their performances so far, Real Madrid are not my top favourite,” the former Bayern Munich, Chelsea and Germany midfielder said via Sport Bild
“That would be Liverpool, who are currently dominating the Champions League.
“I was positively surprised by how Arne Slot managed the transition after the Jurgen Klopp era came to an end.
“It is always twice as difficult when you follow greats like Klopp or somebody like Jose Mourinho at my former club Chelsea, who achieved something unique,” he added.
But, the 48-year-old believes one club are the ‘secret favourites’ and could shock the world and beat Liverpool to. win the competition.
“I see Atalanta as the secret favourite. They have a clear plan offensively and defensively and dominated Bayer Leverkusen in last year’s Europa League final,” Ballack explained.
Atalanta currently hold fourth place in the Champions League group stage, having only suffered a single defeat to Real Madrid thus far.
On Tuesday, the Italian team secured a dominant 5-0 victory against Sturm, and they are currently third in Serie A, trailing league leaders Napoli by seven points.
The impressive form of Ademola Lookman, formerly of Everton and Fulham, has been a significant factor this season. The Europa League star has continued his stellar performance from last year.
Lookman, who was named African Player of the Year for 2024, has scored 10 goals in 16 Serie A starts to date.
