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Football Weekly Why are English teams dominating the Champions League? Football Weekly Extra
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Jan 22, 2026 Max Rushden chats with Jonathan Liew, a senior football journalist known for his tactical insights, Lars Sivertsen, a football writer with expertise in Scandinavian clubs, and Paul Watson, a seasoned football journalist and podcaster. They tackle the dominance of English teams in the Champions League, exploring the financial muscle and tactical advantages at play. The discussion also includes the new Swiss-format challenges, Newcastle's impressive performances, and Bodo/Glimt's surprising triumph over Manchester City. Expect a blend of analysis and engaging commentary!
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Financial Muscle Fuels English Success
- Premier League clubs' financial dominance explains much of their Champions League advantage this season.
- Market inefficiencies still allow exceptions, but money and wages largely drive results.
Physicality Upsets Continental Styles
- Newcastle's physical, intense style troubles many continental teams unused to such directness.
- That physicality can produce humiliating wins even when pedigree suggests parity.
Expanded Format Creates Drama And Confusion
- The Swiss-model 36-team Champions League creates chaotic, hard-to-visualise tables despite more drama.
- The format increases late-stage intrigue but reduces overall competition context and clarity.