Women’s Champions League Set to Kick Off

Next week marks the beginning of a new season for the Women’s Champions League, and once again, Europe’s top talents will come together in a quest for continental success. It’s always exciting to see how the best athletes perform on such a prominent stage.

Here are five players to keep an eye on this UWCL season.

Aitana Bonmatí – FC Barcelona Femení

The three-time Ballon d’Or recipient and Barcelona star, Aitana Bonmatí, had a rough last season, sidelined for much of it due to a broken ankle. This season, she’s determined to reclaim her best form and help lead Barça to their fifth Champions League title.

Barcelona has undergone significant changes over the summer and lost club legend Alexia Putellas—one of the pillars in last season’s UWCL campaign, especially filling in for Aitana during her absence. Now, it’s Bonmatí’s time to reaffirm her standing as one of the best in the world, and I’m sure she’s eager to show her capabilities in European competition.

When fully fit, Aitana is arguably the most well-rounded midfielder out there. She’s adept at winning duels, making crucial assists, scoring goals, and possesses a unique style that simply can’t be missed.

Clàudia Pina – FC Barcelona Femení

While Aitana shines as a superstar, you could certainly argue that Clàudia Pina may be the most crucial member of Barcelona’s newly-formed squad aiming to maintain their dominance in Europe.

Pina has been gradually developed over recent years, primarily playing as a forward. However, with Putellas’ exit, she’s been unleashed in her ideal position as an attacking midfielder, responsible for both creating opportunities and scoring goals.

At 25, she’s entering her prime and possesses all the ingredients to become a major star. If she can deliver on the lofty expectations this Champions League season, she could even find herself in Ballon d’Or discussions next year. The raw talent is undoubtedly there.

Salma Paralluelo – OL Lyonnes

This summer, Salma Paralluelo made headlines by transferring from Barcelona to Lyon, a significant move for last season’s runners-up who hope she might just be the missing piece in their strategy to dethrone Barça.

Paralluelo is an exceptional athlete, blending speed and strength, and has already established herself as one of the game’s elite finishers. She’ll carry the heavy responsibility of being Lyon’s top forward in the Champions League this season, and many expect her to be among the leading scorers.

Alessia Russo – Arsenal

Another strong contender for the top scorer title this season is Arsenal’s Alessia Russo, who netted nine goals last year. She’s continuously proving to be one of the foremost forwards in the sport. Russo plays for a well-rounded Arsenal squad that won the title in 2025 and is again a prime contender this season.

With a solid defense and a capable midfield backing her, Russo’s responsibility lies in converting the team’s coordinated plays into goals. She’s consistently reliable in crucial moments, and that’s a valuable trait.

Pernille Harder – Bayern Munich

As we take a closer look at the players to watch, it’s important to appreciate the talents of Pernille Harder, a player whose career, let’s be honest, we won’t be able to enjoy for much longer. Her brilliance on the pitch is something to be cherished.

Bayern may not be favorites for the title, but they always deserve our respect, primarily due to Harder. She can lead in both goals and assists and, even at 33, she’s still one of the most formidable forwards in Europe.