Steven Gerrard Names Bayern Munich as Champions League ‘Dark Horses’

Steven Gerrard has identified Bayern Munich as potential “dark horses” to win this season’s UEFA Champions League, while also backing Paris Saint-Germain as his outright favourites.

Bayern Munich booked their place in the quarter-finals in emphatic fashion, dismantling Atalanta BC 10-2 on aggregate. Vincent Kompany’s side will now face Real Madrid CF, who progressed after eliminating Manchester City FC.

Elsewhere, Liverpool FC secured a commanding 4-0 victory over Galatasaray at Anfield, sealing their progression to the last eight. They are set to face Paris Saint-Germain, who advanced following an 8-2 aggregate triumph against Chelsea FC.

On the opposite side of the draw, FC Barcelona will take on Atlético Madrid, while Arsenal FC — the only unbeaten team left in the competition — are scheduled to meet Sporting CP.

Speaking on TNT Sports, Gerrard suggested that Real Madrid remain the benchmark in Europe, particularly given their pedigree in the competition.

“At this stage of the tournament, the biggest teams and players begin to assert themselves. If you are not fully prepared, you can be heavily punished,” Gerrard said.

“I believe the best version of Real Madrid will progress. They always seem to find another level in the Champions League, as they demonstrated against Manchester City.”

However, the former Liverpool captain believes Bayern Munich have the qualities to go all the way.

“Bayern could be the dark horses this year. They have a fully fit squad, Harry Kane is in excellent form, and Kompany has them well organised. They appear better equipped now than they have been over the past four or five seasons.”

Despite this, Gerrard singled out Paris Saint-Germain as his leading contenders to lift the trophy once again.

“In my view, PSG will go on to win the competition. They have that ability to raise their level in the biggest matches, much like Real Madrid have done over the years. Their focus on the Champions League is clear, and they know exactly when to step up.”

Former Liverpool winger Steve McManaman also shared his thoughts, suggesting PSG have yet to reach their peak despite their dominant victory over Chelsea.

“They won the competition last year, but they will need to improve further. It depends on which PSG side turns up,” McManaman said. “Their recent performances have been strong, particularly against Chelsea, and they seem to be peaking at the right time. However, they have not been as consistently dominant as they were last season.”

Gerrard also warned Liverpool will face a far sterner challenge against the French champions.

“It will be a completely different test, as PSG are significantly stronger than Galatasaray,” he added. “Liverpool will need to be perfect over the two legs to reach the semi-finals. If they can rediscover the intensity and unity they showed last year, they have every chance of pushing PSG all the way.”