Sportivo Barracas 概要

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.

Leon Goretzka faces a frustrating wait for his Aston Villa debut after the German midfielder was ruled out for several weeks with a knee injury. The former Bayern Munich star, who recently moved to Villa Park on a free transfer, will also miss Jurgen Klopp's first international break in charge of the German national team.

Aston Villa’s forced refresh during the summer transfer window of 2026 may prove to be a “blessing in disguise”, Stephen Warnock has told GOAL, with Liverpool considered to have been trumped in one notable department. Unai Emery has had to rebuild much of his Europa League-winning side, but plenty of pedigree and potential has been added to the collective ranks.