Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone says the new Champions League format “forces us to win”. The new-look 36-team league phase of Europe’s elite club competition commenced this week, replacing the previous group stage format.

Atletico Madrid begins its 2024–25 Champions League campaign against one of its toughest opponents, RB Leipzig. Diego Simeone welcomed Robin Le Normand, Alexander Sørloth and Julián Alvarez to Madrid with the hope of building a squad capable of challenging for the Spanish and European crowns.

Diego Simeone's side still suffer from the hurt of losing two finals to Real Madrid, but hope and expectations are on the rise

The new Champions League format forces teams to go for the win, Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone said after his side fought back from a deficit to grab a late 2-1 victory over RB Leipzig on Thursday.

RB Leipzig started off their Champions League campaign with a deserved defeat against Atletico Madrid. After just four minutes, Leipzig took the lead through Benjamin Seško who headed in a parry

It may be a new format, but Manchester City is still the clear betting favorite to win the Champions League at +280 odds at FanDuel. The Cityzens, who won the tournament in 2023, are joined by defending champions Real Madrid (+350) at the top of the board.