This season’s Champions League had all the characteristic drama, as well as the romance of the classic competition. We saw high-scoring thrillers and tense tactical masterclasses, while rising stars and veterans made sure no one will forget them. All the reasons why we love football had a light shone on them by the world’s greatest club competition. We’re sad it’s over but we’re here to give you the 11 players we think stood above the rest, in our Champions League Team of the Season.
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Keep reading to see who we’ve picked for the NetBet Champions League Team of the Season.
Goalkeeper – Gregor Kobel (Borussia Dortmund)
With an honourable mention to Real Madrid stand-in Andriy Lunin, our goalkeeper spot goes to BvB stopper Gregor Kobel. With an impressive six clean sheets in 12 games, he was instrumental in Dortmund’s run to the final – notably with an incredible performance in the semi-finals to keep out Kylian Mbappe and his PSG colleagues.
Right-Back – Daniel Carvajal (Real Madrid)
Scorer and Man of the Match in the final, the Real veteran definitely deserves some recognition for his performances. Heavily linked with a move to MLS this summer, Carvajal showed he still has what it takes to shut down Europe’s best wingers. Real’s defensive solidity, which was huge in them lifting the trophy, can be strongly attributed to the part played by the Spaniard.
Centre-Back – Mats Hummels (Borussia Dortmund)
The same importance can be placed on the shoulders of Hummels. An absolutely integral part of Dortmund’s success, Hummels contributed largely to their six clean sheets. He was physical and dominant, regardless of opponent and even chipped in with a vital goal in their semi-final tie with PSG.
Centre-Back – Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid)
Rudiger makes up the foundation of the insurmountable Real defence. His pace and strength are a match for any striker he faces, while his mentality is second to none. Defending against the likes of Benjamin Sesko, Erling Haaland and Harry Kane is no mean feat but Rudiger dealt with it confidently.
Left-Back – Ian Maatsen (Borussia Dortmund)
When Maatsen was sent to Dortmund on loan in January by Chelsea to try and revitalise him for a Premier League return, not many expected him to be walking out at Wembley to play in the final. Throughout the competition he was dynamic and physical, supporting both defensive and offensive efforts. He has proven to be a valuable asset and it won’t just be Dortmund vying for his signature this summer.
Midfield – Toni Kroos (Real Madrid)
There’s not much praise which can be aimed at Kroos that hasn’t already been said but the ever-classy midfielder deserves it all. One of the most elegant passers to grace a Champions League pitch and with a football IQ to match any player in the game’s history. Kroos is a joy to watch and the six-time Champions League winner will be sorely missed when he retires after Euro 2024.
Midfield – Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
Bellingham has converted himself from one of Europe’s top young prospects into one of the world’s best footballers. His impressive La Liga campaign was matched by his European exploits and it seems that there’s not much (if anything) the Real midfielder can’t do. Bellingham is simply a sight to behold on the pitch. His creative play and range of passing is almost unmatched and he looks effortlessly composed on the ball, gliding past defenders without second thought. We just hope he keeps his incredible form going for England this summer.
Midfield – Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich)
Perhaps a bit of an unsung hero in the Bayern team, Kimmich has been one of the most consistent players in Europe for years. Reliable and efficient, Kimmich embodies the Bayern spirit and will do anything for the team, being deployed all over the park but most commonly in midfield or at right-back. He is passionate, committed and an asset to any side he plays in. A well-earned pick for the German maestro.
Right Wing – Phil Foden (Manchester City)
Another young Englishman shining on the European stage, Foden was a handful all across the continent. With a joy for the game all football fans can relate to, Foden plays with a freedom that is amazing to see in what can sometimes be a robotic Guardiola winning machine. Foden scores all types of goals and his quality on the ball makes him a sure-fire pick for this XI, as well as for Gareth Southgate’s England squad.
Left Wing – Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)
The Brazilian sensation is arguably the standout name in this XI. His dynamic wing play has been key to Real’s recent dominance both domestically and in Europe. Defenders all over the continent will have had – and continue having nightmares – about Vini Jr and it’s very easy to see why. Scoring six goals in 10 matches, including a vital strike in the final, he looks firmly on course to win this year’s Ballon d’Or.
Striker – Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
England’s captain has been ruthless in front of goal for Bayern. With 44 strikes in all competitions across 2023-24, Kane is in the conversation for the best player on the planet at the moment. Eight of his massive goal tally came in 12 Champions League matches as every defence he faced struggled to keep him out. Not only is Kane a lethal finisher, but a complete footballer. His passing range and creative capacity resemble that of any of the world’s best midfielders. A game-changing signing for Bayern who will be essential in pulling them back to the top of their game when the new season starts. For now, we hope he keeps scoring for fun in the Euros.
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