6. Arsenal (England)
This season Arsenal showed real growth but ended in disappointment. They finished second in the Premier League for the third season in a row.
A strong Champions League run saw them reach the semi-finals before falling to this year's winners, PSG. Despite progress, their search for silverware continues under Mikel Arteta.
7. Real Madrid (Spain)
Real Madrid’s 2024–25 season brought international glory but domestic heartbreak. They lifted the UEFA Super Cup and Intercontinental Cup, with Mbappé shining and Bellingham impressing.
However, they finished second in La Liga and lost key finals to Barcelona. After a Champions League quarter-final exit, Ancelotti stepped down, paving the way for Xabi Alonso.
8. Manchester City (England)
Manchester City experienced a season marked by both highs and lows. Under Pep Guardiola, City's season wasn't particularly successful, as they only managed to finish third in the table.
Moreover, disappointment came with an FA Cup final loss to Crystal Palace and an early Champions League exit in the knockout phase play-offs. Despite the setbacks, City maintained their status as one of Europe’s top teams heading into next season.
9. Borussia Dortmund (Germany)
Borussia Dortmund’s 2024–25 season was one of revival. After a shaky start, new coach Niko Kovač sparked a turnaround, lifting them from 11th to 4th in the Bundesliga and securing Champions League football.
Serhou Guirassy shone with 21 league goals. Though they exited early in the DFB-Pokal and Europe, their strong finish showed real promise for the future.
10. Atletico Madrid (Spain)
Atletico Madrid’s 2024–25 season was a mix of solid progress and tough moments. Under Diego Simeone, they finished third in La Liga, securing Champions League football. Julián Álvarez and Alexander Sørloth led the attack with impressive goal tallies.
They reached the Copa del Rey semi-finals but fell to Real Madrid, who also knocked them out of the Champions League in a tense shootout.