It could be a double European celebration for English teams this season, with five teams still battling for Champions League and Europa League glory. Could there be a double Premier League celebration come May?
Champions League
Although the English dominance may have waned slightly in recent years, with no winner since 2008, the strength of the Premier League is there for all to see. Manchester United, Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal have all shown in patches that they are capable of mounting a challenge for Europe’s top prize.
United (15/2 to win 2010-11 Champions League) look the most likely of the quartet to reach the Wembley showpiece and should progress to the quarter finals after a goalless draw in Marseille in their last-16 first-leg encounter.
Chelsea (9/2 Outright Market) seem almost certain to progress as well after an impressive 2-0 away win in Copenhagen, with this competition now their only target. This is the trophy Roman Abramovich craves and a victory at Wembley on May 28 seems the only thing that can save Carlo Ancelotti’s job.
Spurs (1/4 to qualify for quarter finals) look a decent outside bet to win the trophy in their debut Champions League campaign, having shown they are more than capable of posing a threat to anyone over two legs. The lack of European experience in the Spurs backline may cause problems later in the tournament though.
Arsenal (8/1 to win in Nou Camp) have every chance of lifting the trophy for the first time… if they can hold off Barcelona. It looks unlikely though, despite Arsenal holding a 2-1 advantage from the first leg. Expect the blow of an early European exit putting pay to the Gunners’ hopes of silverware this season.
Europa League
Manchester City look to have all the credentials to be a success in Europe this season, but the dwindling confidence in the camp is a concern. Roberto Mancini’s squad have made light work of reaching the last 16 of the Europa League, but face a tricky test against Dynamo Kiev.
Having struggled to come to terms with the Premier League, Edin Dzeko will be a key player if City (4/11 to get past Kiev) are to reach the final in Dublin on May 18 as he has plenty of European experience behind him.
Liverpool (11/2 Europa League Outright) could make it an all-England final, draw permitting, with solid defensive performances the cornerstone of their progression to the last 16. A lack of goals is the only concern for the Reds, who will face Portuguese side Braga in the next round.
Want £200 Free? Click here to visit Bet365 and claim your free money.