2026-27 Women’s Champions League preview: Is Barcelona’s era of dominance over?

As the new Women’s Champions League season kicks off, the race for the top prize is as wide open as it has been in a long time. Barcelona, the reigning champions, face an uncertain future after losing key players like Alexia Putellas, Mapi León, Ona Battle, and Salma Paralluelo to other clubs. This shift in the team's dynamic has raised questions about their ability to maintain their dominance in the competition.

However, Lyon, who strengthened their squad with the signing of Salma Paralluelo, is positioned to capitalize on Barcelona's vulnerabilities. The French side, all-time record winners, could very well challenge for their third consecutive title. Meanwhile, other top teams like Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City are also in the mix, making for a highly competitive season.

Aitana Bonmatí, Barcelona's star midfielder, is set to return from injury and is expected to be a game-changer. Salma Paralluelo, who transferred from Barcelona to Lyon, has become a crucial player for Lyon, potentially becoming the top scorer in the tournament. Manchester City's Bunny Shaw and Arsenal's Alessia Russo are also among the top contenders, with Shaw aiming to add more goals to her resume and Russo bringing her exceptional goal-scoring skills to the European stage.

The final match of the season is scheduled for May 30, 2027, at Warsaw, Poland, where the battle for the Women’s Champions League title will be decided.