McManaman: PSG and Barcelona are Champions League favorites, Liverpool are in a transition season

Former Liverpool winger Steve McManaman believes defending champions Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona are favorites to win this season's Champions League, while Arsenal were not included among his picks.

McManaman said on TNT Sports: “Paris Saint-Germain are obviously Champions League favorites because they have won the last two editions in a row.”

He continued: “I think Barcelona are also very strong and they have been performing well in La Liga. Every time they move forward, they look like they are going to score, and they now have six forwards in the squad, which helps them a lot. They are certainly among the leading teams, they have improved compared with last year, so they will be very close.”

Speaking about new Reds signing Barcola, McManaman said: “I think he will make the team better. His performances at Paris Saint-Germain have already proven his ability, and he has also won the Champions League several times, so we know he has experience. I think he can improve Liverpool's starting lineup, but whether that is enough to put them close to the title favorites, I would still be doubtful.”

“I think this is a transition season for Liverpool, and the team's performances will also have ups and downs like last year. I hope they can finish higher than last season, but I don't think they will have the ability to compete for titles across all competitions.”

“I would prefer them to bring in a few more players and add more experience to the squad. Now I don't just want them to qualify for the Champions League and perform well in the league, I also want them to truly compete for domestic trophies.”