The Winners

Barcelona

Barcelona had an exceptional season under Hansi Flick, showcasing a remarkable comeback in El Clásico to secure a 4-3 victory over Real Madrid. The team's young talents like Pau Cubarsí, Pedri, and Lamine Yamal have flourished, with Flick's philosophy integrating La Masía graduates with experienced players like Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha. Despite narrowly missing out on a treble, Barcelona's performance has been nothing short of spectacular.

Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest exceeded expectations by securing a seventh-place finish and a spot in European competition. Despite a rocky start due to a points deduction, the team rallied under Nuno Espírito Santo, playing a robust counterattacking style that has delighted fans.

Paris Saint-Germain

PSG transformed their strategy post-Kylian Mbappé's departure, with Luis Enrique creating a balanced, team-oriented approach. Players like Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia have thrived, leading PSG to the brink of a Champions League victory.

Liverpool

Liverpool's Premier League title win under Arne Slot was a surprise to many. Slot's calm and strategic approach turned the team into a consistent force, with players like Ryan Gravenberch and Virgil van Dijk excelling. The title win, achieved with only three losses, marks a significant achievement for the club.

The Losers

AC Milan

AC Milan's season was fraught with inconsistency and managerial changes. Despite high ambitions, the team struggled to secure a Champions League spot, finishing eighth in Serie A. The Coppa Italia final offers a glimmer of hope for European competition next season.

Real Madrid

Real Madrid faced a series of challenges, including defensive vulnerabilities and a lack of collective commitment. Despite Kylian Mbappé's impressive individual performance, the team fell short in key matches, including a series of defeats to Barcelona.

Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur

Both clubs endured difficult seasons, plagued by tactical inflexibility and inconsistency. Despite their struggles, they face each other in the Europa League final, offering a chance for redemption. However, both teams need significant changes to rebuild for future success.

Conclusion

The 2024-25 European football season has been a rollercoaster of emotions, with Barcelona leading the charge among the winners, while Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur face critical assessments. The upcoming seasons promise more excitement and potential shifts in the football landscape.