Bayern Munich Backed as Champions League Favorites vs Chelsea

Bayern Munich are widely regarded as favorites for their Champions League opener against Chelsea, with German legend Lothar Matthäus naming them among the top seven contenders for the European title this season.

Bayern Munich’s Champions League Ambitions

Bayern Munich start their Champions League campaign with high expectations, as they face Chelsea in the first group stage match. According to German football icon Lothar Matthäus, the Bavarian giants, led by star striker Harry Kane, possess the quality and depth to challenge for the continental crown once again. Matthäus has included Bayern Munich as one of only seven teams he believes are capable of lifting the Champions League trophy at the end of the current season.

Why Bayern Munich Are Tipped to Beat Chelsea

Matthäus’s confidence in Bayern Munich stems from their impressive squad, which has been bolstered by the arrival of England captain Harry Kane. With an experienced core featuring the likes of Joshua Kimmich, Leroy Sané, and Thomas Müller, as well as the tactical nous of manager Thomas Tuchel, Bayern Munich look well-equipped to handle the pressure of facing reigning Club World Cup holders Chelsea.

Chelsea, on the other hand, have undergone significant changes in recent months, including several new signings and a managerial shift. While the Blues are always a threat on the European stage, their current transitional phase may leave them vulnerable against a well-drilled Bayern Munich side. Matthäus highlights Bayern’s experience in big matches as a key factor that could make the difference in this highly-anticipated clash.

Seven Contenders for Europe’s Biggest Prize

Lothar Matthäus’s list of Champions League favorites includes clubs with established European pedigrees. Alongside Bayern Munich, he names Real Madrid, Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, Liverpool, and Inter Milan as the main candidates to win this year’s tournament. Each of these teams has a strong squad and recent history of deep runs in the competition, but Matthäus believes Bayern’s blend of youth, experience, and attacking firepower gives them an edge.

Key Players to Watch: Bayern Munich vs Chelsea

All eyes will be on Harry Kane, who joined Bayern Munich in the summer transfer window and has quickly settled into his new surroundings. The English striker is expected to lead the line and provide the goals Bayern need to progress deep into the tournament. Supporting Kane will be creative talents such as Jamal Musiala and Serge Gnabry, while the defensive stability provided by Matthijs de Ligt and Manuel Neuer in goal offers further reassurance to the Bavarian faithful.

For Chelsea, the spotlight will be on their new signings and how quickly they can adapt to the intensity of Champions League football. The Blues will rely on the experience of players like Thiago Silva as they look to overcome one of Europe’s most formidable sides.

The Tactical Battle: Tuchel’s Edge Over Chelsea?

One intriguing subplot to this encounter is Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel facing his former club. Tuchel’s familiarity with Chelsea’s strengths and weaknesses could provide Bayern with a tactical advantage, potentially allowing the German coach to exploit gaps in the Blues’ setup. The tactical battle between Tuchel and Chelsea’s new manager will be fascinating to watch, with both sides keen to make a statement in their opening match.

What’s at Stake in the Champions League Opener?

A positive start is crucial in the Champions League, and both Bayern Munich and Chelsea will be eager to lay down a marker for the rest of the group. With Matthäus backing Bayern as favorites, the pressure will be on the German champions to live up to their billing and secure an early advantage in the group standings. For Chelsea, a strong performance could signal their intent to challenge at the highest level, despite recent changes to their squad and management.

Prediction and Opinion

Based on current form, squad depth, and experience, Bayern Munich appear well-placed to take all three points against Chelsea in their Champions League opener. The addition of Harry Kane has given the Bavarians a new dimension in attack, and their overall balance makes them legitimate contenders for the European crown. While Chelsea have the talent to cause problems, their ongoing transition suggests Bayern will have the upper hand.

In my view, Bayern Munich’s stability and proven European pedigree give them a clear edge in this matchup. It’s likely we’ll see the German champions start their campaign with a statement win, reinforcing their status as one of the teams to beat in this season’s Champions League. For more news and updates on the Champions League and top football stories, visit for more news.