The UEFA Champions League has always been the pinnacle of European football, showcasing the greatest teams and players on the continent. However, every now and then, an underdog or a dark horse emerges from the shadows, ready to shake up the status quo. As we look ahead to the 2023 edition of the Champions League, there are a few dark horses worth keeping an eye on.
One team that has been making waves in recent years is Atalanta. The Italian side has been a revelation in Serie A, consistently finishing in the top four and earning themselves a spot in the Champions League. Under the guidance of manager Gian Piero Gasperini, Atalanta plays an attacking brand of football that has caught many teams off guard. With their high-intensity pressing and fearless mentality, they have proven that they can compete with the best. In the 2022/2023 season, Atalanta is poised to make a deep run in the Champions League, and don’t be surprised if they cause some major upsets along the way.
Another team to watch out for is RB Leipzig. The German side has been steadily improving over the years and has established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the Bundesliga. Under the guidance of highly-rated coach Julian Nagelsmann, Leipzig plays an exciting brand of football, relying on their young and talented squad. With players like Dani Olmo, Emil Forsberg, and Christopher Nkunku, Leipzig possesses the firepower to trouble any defense. After reaching the semi-finals in the 2019/2020 season, Leipzig will be eager to go one step further in 2023 and lift the coveted trophy.
Porto is no stranger to Champions League success, having lifted the trophy twice in the past. However, they haven’t been among the favorites in recent years. That could all change in the 2023 edition of the tournament. Porto has been rebuilding their squad and has unearthed some exciting young talents. Moreover, the experience and tactical acumen of manager Sergio Conceicao cannot be discounted. Porto’s ability to organize and stifle even the most potent attacks make them a team to fear. With a strong defensive setup and a lethal counter-attacking game, they have the potential to cause major upsets in the knockout stages.
Finally, Ajax Amsterdam deserves a mention when talking about dark horses in the Champions League. The Dutch side has a storied past, with four European Cup/Champions League titles to their name. While they may have fallen off the radar in recent years, Ajax has built a formidable squad that blends youth with experience. Their scouting network has a knack for unearthing talented youngsters, and under coach Erik ten Hag, they play an attractive style of football that emphasizes possession and quick transitions. Ajax’s track record of producing world-class talents like Frenkie de Jong and Matthijs de Ligt is proof that they shouldn’t be underestimated.
As the 2023 Champions League kicks off, keep an eye on these dark horses. While the traditional powerhouses will always be favorites, football is a game of surprises and underdogs. Atalanta, RB Leipzig, Porto, and Ajax have all shown that they have what it takes to upset the established order. So, buckle up and get ready for some exciting football as these dark horses aim to shake up the Champions League and create history.
