A host of Champions League markets have been released following the group stage draw, with an all-Premier League final chalked up at 7/2.

The English contingent is perhaps slightly weaker than in previous years with no Liverpool, but Manchester City look stronger than ever and finally have the monkey off their back.

Pep Guardiola's men will take some stopping but with Arsenal, Manchester United and Newcastle, the English clubs should feel confident of beating whoever they face with the exceptions of the big three of Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Barcelona. 

Of course, the likes of Atletico Madrid, Napoli and last season's finalists Inter are all capable of beating the Premier League contingent, not to mention French giants PSG, despite their hugely underwhelming Champions League record.

We were treated to a first all-English final in 2008 between Manchester United and Chelsea - one that would've been repeated 12 months later but for a last minute goal from Andres Iniesta and some controversial refereeing decisions. 

We had to wait until 2019 for another when Liverpool met Tottenham, but by then the English clubs were getting stronger and stronger, leaving their European counterparts behind.

Chelsea played Manchester City in 2021, and as long as the draw plays its part, there's no reason we can't see two Premier League sides contest another final.

Champions League Nationality of Winner odds:

With Manchester City favourites and three other sides priced between 10/1 and 25/1 it's not surprise to an English Champions League winner at 11/10. If nothing else, we can expect to have a Premier League representative having had at least one in five of the last six Champions League finals.

Spain are second favourites, slightly ahead of Germany. Barcelona must improve on last season's effort where they failed to get out of what was in fairness a tough group containing Bayern and Inter. Real Madrid should have no problems getting out of their group and must be targeting top spot, and though they may not be the force they once were, Atletico Madrid can't be discounted and are capable of causing any team problems.

Germany's obvious threat comes in the form of a strengthen Bayern Munich, but Borussia Dortmund, despite being drawn in the group of death, can't be totally discounted, while RB Leipzig have also been priced up at the same 50/1.

Liam Williams

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