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The road to Madrid begins this week as the league phase gets under way - but which teams are currently looking in the best shape to go on and lift the European Cup?

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is facing a significant selection headache as his side prepares for a vital Champions League fixture against Club Brugge. The Premier League outfit must navigate this European hurdle without the services of Leon Goretzka, whose ongoing injury struggles have dealt a major blow to the club's midfield options.

Comprehensive match preview of Club Brugge vs Europa League winners Aston Villa in the Champions League group phase. We talk tactics, team news, transfers, form and more.

Aston Villa head coach Unai Emery has left new £25 million signing Taylor Harwood-Bellis out of his 25-man Champions League squad. The 24-year-old defender, who is the son-in-law of Manchester United legend Roy Keane, joined from Southampton on deadline day but faces a waiting game for top-tier European action despite expressing his eagerness to perform on the continent's biggest stage.