The UEFA Champions League. Just the name itself conjures up images of stunning goals, dramatic comebacks, and legendary players battling it out for European glory. But for those of us who love to take our passion for the beautiful game to the next level, there’s the UEFA Champions League Fantasy Football game. It’s the ultimate test of your football knowledge, where you assemble your dream team of European stars and compete against millions of fans worldwide.
This blog post was written during Matchday 6 of the 2024/2025 UEFA Champions League season, taking into account the statistics and performances we’ve seen so far this season. As the group stages conclude and teams gear up for the knockout rounds, form and circumstances are bound to change. That’s why we’ll continue to update this post throughout the tournament to ensure it remains your go-to guide.
Building a winning fantasy team isn’t just about picking your favourite players. It’s about carefully analysing form, consistency, potential, and value to find the perfect blend of superstars and hidden gems. We’ve meticulously scoured the stats, studied the form guides, and factored in the latest transfer news to bring you our top 10 picks for the best UEFA Champions League fantasy team of the 2024/2025 season.
Goalkeepers
1. Emiliano Martínez (Aston Villa)
Aston Villa’s surprise run in this season’s Champions League wouldn’t be possible without the heroics of their Argentinian shot-stopper, Emiliano Martínez. “Dibu,” as he’s affectionately known, has been a rock between the posts, providing a sense of calm and confidence to the Villa defence.
Why Martínez is a Top Fantasy Pick:
- Clean Sheet King: Martínez has an incredible 4 clean sheets in 6 UCL matches. That’s a testament to his shot-stopping abilities and Aston Villa’s solid defensive structure. In fantasy football, clean sheets are gold dust for goalkeepers, and Martínez is delivering them consistently.
- Save Specialist: With a 90% save success rate, Martínez is a wall in front of the goal. He’s making crucial saves game after game, racking up those valuable fantasy points.
- Commanding Presence: Martínez isn’t afraid to come off his line, claim crosses, or sweep up danger. His 100% success rate on runs out shows his confidence and decisiveness.
- Every Minute Man: Martínez has played every minute of every Champions League match for Aston Villa. This highlights his importance to the team and guarantees consistent playing time, which is essential for fantasy managers.
Minor Concerns:
- One Costly Error: While Martínez has been exceptional overall, he did have one error leading to a goal. However, every goalkeeper makes mistakes, and his overall performances far outweigh this single blemish.
Overall:
Emiliano Martínez is a top-tier goalkeeper option for your best UEFA Champions league fantasy team. His consistent clean sheets, high save percentage, and guaranteed playing time make him a reliable source of points. If you’re looking for a goalkeeper who can win you your mini-league, Dibu is your man.
2. Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid)
Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois needs no introduction. The Belgian giant is one of the best goalkeepers in the world, and he’s proving his worth once again in the Champions League.
Why Courtois Remains a Solid Choice:
- Experience and Pedigree: Courtois is a seasoned veteran with a wealth of Champions League experience. He’s been there and done it, winning the competition with Real Madrid in the past. This experience translates to calmness under pressure and consistent performances.
- Shot-Stopping Prowess: Despite facing a barrage of shots from top-class opponents, Courtois maintains a respectable 77% save success rate. He’s making crucial saves to keep Real Madrid in games.
- Confident in the Air: Courtois is dominant in the air, claiming crosses and commanding his area with authority. His 100% success rate on runs out demonstrates his confidence and ability to deal with aerial threats.
- Guaranteed Starter: Courtois is Real Madrid’s undisputed number one. He’s playing every minute of every match, providing fantasy managers with the consistency they crave.
Factors to Consider:
- Goals Conceded: Real Madrid’s defence hasn’t been as solid as in previous seasons, and Courtois is conceding an average of 1.8 goals per game. This might affect his clean sheet potential.
- High Price: As one of the top goalkeepers in the game, Courtois comes with a hefty price tag. You’ll need to balance your budget carefully if you want to include him in your team.
Overall:
Thibaut Courtois remains a solid option for your best Champions League fantasy team. While his clean sheet potential might be slightly lower this season, his shot-stopping ability and guaranteed playing time make him a valuable asset. Courtois is a reliable choice for your fantasy squad if you can afford him.
Defenders
3. Alejandro Grimaldo (Bayer 04 Leverkusen)
Alejandro Grimaldo is not your typical defender. This Bayer Leverkusen left-back is a constant threat going forward, making him a fantasy football dream.
Why Grimaldo is a Must-Have:
- Attacking Threat: Grimaldo loves to bomb forward and join the attack. He’s already scored 2 goals in the Champions League, exceeding his expected goals, and provided 1 assist. For a defender, those are impressive attacking returns.
- Creative Spark: Grimaldo isn’t just about scoring himself; he’s also creating chances for his teammates. He’s created 2 big chances in the Champions League, highlighting his playmaking abilities.
- Consistent Performer: Grimaldo is a regular starter for Leverkusen, playing almost every minute of every match. This ensures consistent playing time and a steady stream of fantasy points.
- All-Round Contribution: Grimaldo is also a solid defender, averaging 2.3 tackles and 2.3 clearances per game. He contributes at both ends of the pitch, making him a valuable asset.
Overall:
Alejandro Grimaldo is a fantastic option for your best Champions League fantasy team. His attacking contributions, combined with his solid defensive work, make him a unique and valuable asset. If you’re looking for a defender who can deliver both clean sheets and attacking returns, Grimaldo is your man.
4. Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain)
PSG’s Achraf Hakimi is a whirlwind of attacking energy down the right flank. This Moroccan full-back is a constant threat going forward, and he’s racking up the fantasy points.
Why Hakimi is a Top Pick:
- Attacking Powerhouse: Hakimi loves to get involved in the attack. He’s already scored 1 goal and provided 2 assists in the Champions League, creating 4 big chances for his teammates.
- Consistent Starter: Hakimi is a key player for PSG, starting every minute of every Champions League match. This guarantees regular playing time and a steady flow of fantasy points.
- Explosive Potential: Hakimi can produce match-winning performances. While he can sometimes be inconsistent, his high peaks make him a thrilling fantasy asset.
Factors to Consider:
- Defensive Vulnerability: PSG’s defence can sometimes be susceptible, which might affect Hakimi’s clean sheet potential.
- Price Tag: As one of the top defenders in the game, Hakimi comes with a high price tag.
Overall:
Achraf Hakimi is an exciting option for your Champions League fantasy defence. His attacking contributions and explosive potential make him a high-risk, high-reward pick. Hakimi is worth considering if you’re looking for a defender who can deliver big points hauls.
5. Nico Schlotterbeck (Borussia Dortmund)
Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck is a rising star in European football. This young German centre-back is a calm and composed presence at the heart of Dortmund’s defence.
Why Schlotterbeck is a Solid Choice:
- Defensive Rock: Schlotterbeck is a reliable defender, averaging 2.5 tackles and 1.2 interceptions per game. He’s a key part of Dortmund’s defensive unit.
- Clean Sheet Potential: Dortmund have kept 3 clean sheets in 6 UCL matches, and Schlotterbeck plays a crucial role in their defensive solidity.
- Attacking Contribution: Schlotterbeck has also shown his ability to contribute offensively, providing 1 assist in the Champions League.
- Guaranteed Starter: Schlotterbeck is a regular starter for Dortmund, playing every minute of every match. This ensures consistent playing time and a steady stream of fantasy points.
Overall:
Nico Schlotterbeck is a solid and reliable option for your Champions League fantasy defence. His defensive solidity, clean sheet potential, and guaranteed playing time make him a valuable asset. If you’re looking for a defender who can provide a consistent stream of points, Schlotterbeck is a good choice.
Midfielders
6. Malik Tillman (PSV)
PSV Eindhoven are making waves in this season’s Champions League, and a key part of their success is the dynamic American midfielder, Malik Tillman. Tillman is pulling the strings in midfield, creating chances and scoring goals with impressive regularity.
Why Tillman is a Fantasy Star:
- Clinical Finisher: Tillman has a keen eye for goal, finding the back of the net 3 times in 6 Champions League matches. He’s exceeding his expected goals, demonstrating his clinical finishing ability.
- Creative Maestro: Tillman is a creative force in midfield, providing 2 assists and an impressive 3.5 key passes per game. He’s unlocking defences and setting up his teammates for scoring opportunities.
- Passing Prowess: Tillman boasts an excellent 86% passing accuracy, dictating the tempo and keeping PSV’s attacks flowing. He’s comfortable on the ball and makes intelligent decisions in possession.
- Attacking Presence: Tillman’s heatmap shows his constant presence in the attacking third. He’s fearless in getting forward and supporting the attack, making him a valuable asset in fantasy football.
Factors to Consider:
- Consistency: While Tillman has shown flashes of brilliance, his performances can be somewhat inconsistent. However, his high peaks demonstrate his match-winning potential.
Overall:
Malik Tillman is a fantastic option for your Champions League fantasy midfield. His clinical finishing, creative passing, and attacking presence make him a valuable asset. If you’re looking for a midfielder who can deliver goals, assists, and consistent performances, Tillman is worth considering.
7. Florian Wirtz (Bayer 04 Leverkusen)
Florian Wirtz is a name that’s been on the lips of football fans for a few years now, and for good reason. This young German attacking midfielder is a rising star with incredible potential, and he’s already proving himself on the biggest stage, the UEFA Champions League.
Why Wirtz is a Fantasy Football Gem:
- Attacking Prowess: Wirtz is a goal-scoring threat from midfield. He’s bagged an impressive 5 goals in 6 Champions League matches, exceeding his expected goals. He has a knack for finding the back of the net and is a constant threat in the opposition box.
- Creative Spark: Wirtz isn’t just about scoring goals; he’s also a highly creative playmaker. He consistently creates scoring opportunities for his teammates with an average of 3 key passes per game.
- Consistent Performer: Wirtz has started every Champions League match this season, playing almost 90 minutes in each game. This shows his importance to Bayer Leverkusen and his consistent involvement in their attacking play.
- Team of the Week Regular: Wirtz’s impressive performances have earned him 2 “Team of the Week” selections, highlighting his consistent impact in the Champions League.
Overall:
Florian Wirtz is a fantastic option for your best uefa champions league fantasy team. He offers a potent combination of goals, assists, and consistent performances. His attacking potential and consistent playing time make him a must-have for any fantasy team.
8. Raphinha (Barcelona)
Barcelona’s Raphinha has been a revelation in this season’s Champions League. The Brazilian winger is a constant threat on the right flank, tormenting defenders with his pace, trickery, and clinical finishing.
Why Raphinha is a Fantasy Must-Have:
- Goal-Scoring Machine: Raphinha is averaging a goal per game in the Champions League, with an impressive 6 goals in 6 matches. He’s a clinical finisher and a constant threat in front of goal.
- Creative Force: Raphinha is not just a goal scorer; he’s also a creative force for Barcelona. He has provided 2 assists and created 4 big chances in the Champions League, showcasing his ability to set up his teammates.
- Consistent Performer: Raphinha is a key player for Barcelona, starting every match and playing an average of 79 minutes per game. This ensures consistent playing time and a steady stream of fantasy points.
- Team of the Week Favorite: Raphinha’s performances have earned him 3 “Team of the Week” selections, highlighting his consistent impact in the Champions League.
Overall:
Raphinha is a fantastic option for your best uefa champions league fantasy team. His ability to score goals, create chances, and maintain a high level of performance makes him a crucial asset for any fantasy team.
Forwards
9. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
Harry Kane has seamlessly transitioned to life in the Bundesliga, leading the line for Bayern Munich with his usual lethal efficiency. In the Champions League, he’s proving to be just as deadly.
Why Kane is a Fantasy King:
- Prolific Goal Scorer: Kane is a goal-scoring machine. He’s averaging a goal per game in the Champions League, with 5 goals in 5 matches. His ability to find the back of the net is second to none.
- Creative Playmaker: Kane is not just a goal scorer; he’s also a creative force for Bayern Munich. He has contributed 1 assist and 2.4 key passes per game, demonstrating his ability to create chances for his teammates.
- Consistent Performer: Kane is a crucial starter for Bayern Munich, playing every minute of every match. This guarantees consistent playing time and a steady stream of fantasy points.
Overall:
Harry Kane is a top-tier forward option for your best uefa champions league fantasy team. His prolific goal-scoring record, creative playmaking, and consistent playing time make him a must-have for any fantasy manager.
10. Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid)
Vinícius Júnior is one of the most exciting young talents in world football. The Brazilian winger is a key part of Real Madrid’s attack, terrorising defences with his pace, dribbling skills, and clinical finishing.
Why Vinícius Júnior is a Fantasy Gem:
- Goal-Scoring Threat: Vinícius Júnior is a constant threat in front of goal. He’s averaging a goal per game in the Champions League, with 5 goals in 5 appearances.
- Creative Spark: Vinícius Júnior is not just a goal scorer; he’s also a creative playmaker for Real Madrid. He has provided 1 assist and created 3 big chances in the Champions League, showcasing his ability to set up his teammates.
- Consistent Starter: Vinícius Júnior is a regular starter for Real Madrid, playing 90 minutes in every match. This ensures consistent playing time and a steady stream of fantasy points.
Overall:
Vinícius Júnior is a fantastic option for your best uefa champions league fantasy team. His goal-scoring ability, creative playmaking, and consistent playing time make him valuable for any fantasy team.
Formation Considerations
Choosing the right formation is crucial in UEFA Champions League Fantasy Football. It dictates the balance of your team and how your players will score points. Here are some popular formations and how our top picks fit into them:
4-3-3: This attacking formation maximises your midfield and forward options.
- Our 4-3-3: Martínez; Hakimi, Schlotterbeck, Grimaldo, Wilfried Singo; Wirtz, Tillman, Raphinha; Kane, Vinícius Jr., Bukayo Saka.
- Alternative Picks: If you prefer a more balanced approach, consider defenders with strong defensive stats like Olivier Boscagli, who can offer clean sheet potential. In midfield, a defensive midfielder like Manuel Locatelli can provide stability.
3-4-3: This formation offers a strong midfield presence with the flexibility of four midfielders.
- Our 3-4-3: Martínez; Schlotterbeck, Virgil van Dijk, Ryan Flamingo; Hakimi, Wirtz, Tillman, Raphinha; Kane, Vinícius Jr., Antoine Griezmann.
- Alternative Picks: This formation allows you to utilise more attacking full-backs. William Saliba, with attacking potential, would be a good fit.
Choosing your formation: The best formation depends on your strategy and your chosen players. Experiment and find what works best for you!
Captaincy Picks
Choosing the right captain is essential in UCL Fantasy Football. Your captain’s points are doubled, so making the right choice can make a huge difference. Here are some factors to consider:
- Consistent Performers: Look for players who consistently deliver high scores, like Harry Kane, Raphinha, and Florian Wirtz. They are reliable options for captaincy.
- Favourable Fixtures: Consider the opponent’s strength and whether the match is home or away. Players facing weaker opposition at home are more likely to score big.
- Recent Form: Analyze recent performances and choose a player in top form. Check for any news about injuries or potential rotation.
Top Captaincy Picks:
- Harry Kane: A prolific goal scorer with a knack for finding the back of the net.
- Raphinha: A consistent performer who delivers goals and assists.
- Florian Wirtz: A rising star with a high ceiling and the potential for big points hauls.
Read More:
- How to Build the Ultimate UEFA Champions League Fantasy Team
Take Your UEFA Champions League Fantasy to the Next Level
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