The 2025-26 UEFA Champions League league phase has reached its halfway mark after four matchdays, with Arsenal and Bayern Munich emerging as frontrunners. Both teams have shown strong form, while Benfica and Ajax struggle without points. The new 36-team format continues to influence competition dynamics.
As the 2025-26 Champions League progresses through its league phase, the shift from traditional group stages to a 36-team table has sparked discussions on match stakes. After four matchdays, Arsenal tops the rankings with effective squad rotation under Mikel Arteta, closely followed by Bayern Munich, who maintain a perfect record in domestic and European competitions.
Bayern Munich has seen a significant boost, gaining 6.3 expected points to reach 19.3, with title odds rising notably. Arsenal has also improved, adding 3.7 expected points to 20.3 and increasing their title odds from 15.6% to 23.6%. Their Champions League campaign includes 25 goals scored and just three conceded, bolstered by goalkeeper David Raya's four clean sheets. Bayern's Luis Díaz has been impactful with his speed and play.
Other strong performers include Manchester City (+2.8 expected points to 18.0) and Inter Milan (+3.8 to 16.9). Liverpool is regaining form after beating Real Madrid, while Paris Saint-Germain avoids early pitfalls. In contrast, Benfica has zero points from three narrow losses, and Ajax sits at the bottom with no points and a goal difference of -14 after conceding heavily in opening matches.
Matchday 4 highlighted trends, with nine teams improving in expected points and odds. Big Five leagues earned 13 points against non-Big Five opponents, though unpredictability persists. Upcoming Matchday 5 features a pivotal Arsenal vs. Bayern clash, which could reshape standings, as teams vie for knockout advancement.