Harry Kane to haunt Man Utd, Jurgen Klopp to win missing trophy, and more as Champions League, Europa League and Europa Conference League return

Harry Kane could pile even more pressure on Man Utd this week; Arsenal and Newcastle return to Champions League action; Jurgen Klopp aims to add the Europa League to his trophy cabinet; Brighton's European adventure gets under way; Celtic, Rangers and Aberdeen fly the flag for Scotland

Monday 18 September 2023 15:14, UK

European football returns this week with the Champions League, Europa League and Europa Conference League group stages getting under way on Tuesday.

Here, the Sky Sports football writers reflect on the big talking points as British clubs start their campaigns...

As Pep Guardiola chases a personal record fifth Champions League medal, progress from Group G should be relatively straightforward for Manchester City.

That once elusive honour was the missing part of Guardiola's City puzzle, but to become a real European super power, to be idolised and respected in continental circles like Real Madrid and Barcelona are, one title is not enough. Far from it.

City are relative newcomers to the Champions League parade. They don't have a longstanding history in this competition — although perhaps, in years to come, they may be retrospectively looked upon as one of football's best new era achievers.

One of the pioneers of the 'new money' clubs — similar to Chelsea's trajectory post-Roman Abramovich. Entrepreneurial, like Gen Z, but with a less entitled attitude.

Guardiola knows the Champions League cannot be bought. There's no magic wand. City have long been the best team in England, three successive Premier League titles has proven that, but they have faltered on the European stage. And there's no prophecy that will afford City the perfect route to European silverware this time around, although the bookmakers do have