Weekend Warmup: Three things we learned about Bayern Munich’s Champions League hopes; Bundesliga predictions; and MORE!

Bayern Munich made a strong start in the Champions League with a 5-0 victory over FK Bodø/Glimt, but the three days of competition gave fans insight into the team's overall performance and areas to watch. The strong second-half display against Bodø/Glimt highlights the team's quality, trust, and determination, which can still break down good teams.

The season's top contenders include PSG, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Arsenal. These teams possess exceptional talent and depth, making it highly likely that they will face each other in the later rounds, leading to an attritional battle. A surprising underdog story could be Como, which defeated RB Leipzig 4-1.

Como's midfield creativity, tactical flexibility, and aggressive playing style make them dangerous, with their midfielders dictating possession and their creative outlets breaking through the German side's defense. Another surprise could be VfB Stuttgart, a talented team that might not be widely recognized outside of Germany. While Barcelona might be the strongest team overall, their lack of a target man striker could be their biggest weakness.

However, Raphinha is filling that role well, and the team has Rodri in midfield and Pau Cubarsi at back, both of whom are exceptional players. The October 20th match against Paris Saint-Germain will be crucial in determining Barcelona's readiness to take the lead in the competition.