Real Madrid legend names Barcelona as one of the favourites to win the Champions League | OneFootball

The 2025/26 UEFA Champions League is all set to get underway later this month, with the draw for the league phase taking place last week and the fixture schedule getting finalised.

FC Barcelona have been handed a relatively straightforward draw for the league phase, although there are some very challenging fixtures.

Having made it as far as the semi-finals last season, where they were eliminated by Inter Milan after a hard-fought battle, the Catalans are determined to go all the way this time around.

Toni Kroos names Barcelona as one of the favourites

Now, speaking on his podcast Einfach mal Luppen (h/t Defensa Central), Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos has named Barcelona as one of the favourites to win the Champions League this season.

Indeed, when asked for his top picks to win Europe’s premier competition in the ongoing campaign, the former Real Madrid and Germany midfielder replied:

“Real Madrid, Barcelona, ​​Paris Saint-Germain, and Liverpool.”

Barcelona fell at the semi-final hurdle in the UCL last season. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Barcelona were one of the best teams in Europe last season, winning the domestic treble under Hansi Flick, and making it to the Champions League semi-finals.

The reigning La Liga champions have not started the new campaign at the same level, something that is seen as a concern by Flick, who has already fired a warning to his squad.

Considering the quality within the squad and the improvements made, particularly with the addition of Joan Garcia, the Blaugrana do have what it takes to go the distance in Europe this time out.

Barcelona will kick off their Champions League campaign later this month with an away fixture against Newcastle United, before hosting trophy holders PSG at home.