Ivan Rakitic predicts Champions League title for Barcelona this season

The 2026/27 UEFA Champions League season begins today with the opening matches of the league phase. Former Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic expressed confidence that the club will secure the trophy under manager Hansi Flick. Barcelona is scheduled to play its first match of the tournament tomorrow at the Spotify Camp Nou against Feyenoord. Rakitic credited the current strength and youth of the squad, as well as the tactical stability introduced by Flick, for his assessment. While he identifies Barcelona as a primary contender, he also noted the potential of PSG, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid to reach the later stages of the competition. Barcelona has not won the tournament since 2015, following recent exits against Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid in previous campaigns.

• 6:00 PMYahoo Sports — Barcelona icon backs team to win the Champions League: ‘This will be their year’