Premier League clubs’ opponents analysed as Champions League and Europa competitions return
There is also the small matter of a Europa League showdown between Manchester United and Barcelona.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.European competition returns this week with Tottenham travelling to AC Milan and Chelsea heading to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.
There is also the small matter of a Europa League showdown between Manchester United and Barcelona.
Here, the PA news agency looks at the form of the English teams’ opponents.
AC Milan
The seven-time European champions have endured a torrid start to the year and were without a win in seven matches until they picked up a much-needed victory over Torino on Friday, thanks to a goal from Olivier Giroud. Tuesday’s meeting with Tottenham is the club’s first Champions League knock-out tie since they were beaten 5-1 on aggregate by Atletico Madrid in the last 16 in 2014.
Borussia Dortmund
Dortmund are a daunting prospect for stuttering Chelsea with six wins from six matches since the season resumed after the World Cup. They lie third in the Bundesliga, three points behind leaders Bayern Munich. England star Jude Bellingham is in scintillating form and the club also provide one of the feelgood stories of the season in the comeback of Sebastien Haller, who scored in the recent 5-1 win over Freiburg on his return from cancer treatment.
Barcelona
Barcelona moved 11 points clear at the top of LaLiga with a 1-0 win over Villarreal, their sixth-successive victory. Incredibly, Xavi’s side have conceded just seven goals in the league – once at home – and their only defeat all season was against rivals Real Madrid in December. Poland striker Robert Lewandowski is the league’s top scorer with 14 and has 25 in all competitions.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments