Europa League 2024/25 – Underrated but Unmissable


Introduction
While the Champions League gets most of the attention, the UEFA Europa League is equally exciting, featuring top European teams fighting for silverware. The competition offers clubs an alternative route to the Champions League and serves as a proving ground for emerging talents and tactical masterminds.

The 2024/25 season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent history, with traditional powerhouses and ambitious challengers battling for glory. In this article, we analyze the tournament’s top contenders, key players, tactical trends, and expectations.

Top Contenders for the Europa League Title
Liverpool – The Giants in the Competition
After missing out on Champions League qualification, Liverpool enters the Europa League as one of the strongest teams in the tournament. Jurgen Klopp’s side has the squad depth and experience to dominate the competition. With Mohamed Salah, Darwin Núñez, and Dominik Szoboszlai in attack, they are favorites to go all the way.

AC Milan – Italian Grit and Flair
AC Milan has a rich European history and is determined to add another continental trophy to its collection. With Rafael Leão leading the attack and a solid midfield featuring Tijjani Reijnders and Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Milan has the firepower to compete with any team in the tournament.

Bayer Leverkusen – Germany’s Rising Force
Under Xabi Alonso, Bayer Leverkusen has become a well-drilled team playing attractive attacking football. With Florian Wirtz as the creative spark and Victor Boniface leading the line, they could be a serious dark horse in the tournament.

Roma – Mourinho’s European Pedigree
Jose Mourinho has already won the Europa League with Porto and Manchester United and guided Roma to the Conference League title in 2022. With Paulo Dybala and Romelu Lukaku in attack, Roma has the experience and quality to make a deep run.

West Ham – Looking for Back-to-Back European Success
After winning the UEFA Conference League last season, West Ham aims to make an impact in the Europa League. With players like Jarrod Bowen and Lucas Paquetá, they have the quality to trouble any opponent.

Key Players to Watch
Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) – The Egyptian King remains one of the best attackers in world football.
Rafael Leão (AC Milan) – A dynamic forward with pace, skill, and goal-scoring ability.
Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen) – A creative midfielder capable of unlocking defenses.
Paulo Dybala (Roma) – A magician with the ball who can decide matches.
Jarrod Bowen (West Ham) – A hardworking winger with an eye for goal.
Tactical Trends in the Europa League
Liverpool – Heavy pressing, fast transitions, and attacking overloads.
AC Milan – Possession-based play with quick wingers.
Bayer Leverkusen – Fluid attacking movement with an emphasis on youth.
Roma – Defensive solidity with counter-attacking threats.
West Ham – Set-piece dominance and a physical playing style.
Current Form and Expectations
Liverpool has started the season well, showing their quality in both domestic and European competitions. AC Milan and Roma are also looking strong, while Bayer Leverkusen is playing some of the best football in Germany. West Ham, though not among the absolute favorites, has the resilience and squad depth to surprise.

The Europa League is unpredictable, and while Liverpool and AC Milan appear to be the strongest teams on paper, surprises are always around the corner.

Conclusion
The UEFA Europa League is a tournament full of surprises, passion, and incredible football. While it may not have the prestige of the Champions League, it remains an essential part of European football, providing a platform for teams and players to shine.

Who will lift the trophy this season? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the road to the final will be filled with drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments.