The Champions League returns on Tuesday night, with household names and lesser-known stars looking to take the tournament by storm. Defending champions PSG are chasing a hat-trick of titles, and their new attacking signing Mika Godts aims to make a grand introduction.
New Signings Ready to Impress
Godts, a left winger, arrived from Ajax in the summer for £50 million after recording 32 goal involvements in 44 games last season. The 21-year-old will fill the role left by Bradley Barcola and hopes to prove himself as another of PSG's electric attackers.
Another speedster looking to make his mark is Yan Diomande, who joined Real Madrid in a club-record £120 million switch. The 19-year-old turned down Liverpool and PSG to join Los Blancos and will aim to justify that hefty price tag.
Debutants and Rising Talents
Tournament debutants Como are set to make their mark on the continental stage under Cesc Fabregas, with 22-year-old talisman Nico Paz carrying big expectations. Paz was named the best midfielder in Serie A last season, and Como beat off rivals to sign him back from Real Madrid.
Lamine Yamal, still only 19, has started the season with four goals in four games for Barcelona. He is eager to secure the Catalan club's sixth Champions League crown and his first.
Veterans and Emerging Stars
Harry Kane, England captain, joined Bayern Munich to win titles, most importantly the Champions League. He is in the running for the Ballon d'Or, and a strong start to the league phase could make him a firm favourite.
Ismael Saibari, another exciting summer transfer, impressed at PSV and for Morocco in the World Cup, earning a £45 million move to Bayern. He marked his Bundesliga debut with two assists in under half an hour.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, also in the Ballon d'Or conversation, aims to fire PSG to a third consecutive Champions League title. His mesmerizing play makes the saying 'he's worth the entrance fee alone' ring true.
Arsenal and Dortmund Hopes
Martin Odegaard has started the season strongly with two goals in his first three league games, already surpassing his entire tally from last season. Arsenal are desperate to go one step further and lift the trophy, with his form crucial.
Oskar Pietuszewski, signed for £9 million from his native Poland, is one of the most thrilling names in the tournament. The 18-year-old Porto winger has caught the eye of Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United.
Borussia Dortmund have a strong track record with young talents, and their £30 million move for 18-year-old midfielder Konstantinos Karetsas from Genk is a statement of intent. He scored just three times last season but provided 18 assists, showing his creative priorities.
