And to complete the fantastic five British clubs; Celtic. Celtic have won the competition more times than Arsenal and Manchester City put together, and although it’s highly unlikely that they’ll repeat that fate they could rustle some feathers. Having faced the likes of Manchester United before it’s fair to say that the draw hasn’t always been kind to the Scots. And much to Neil Lennon’s disappointment the draw has shown no mercy once again, this time it’s FC Barcelona. The draw also sees Aidy McGeady return to the club with Russian side Spartak Moscow. The Irishman spent six years at Celtic and is likely to receive a big reception; be it hostile or warm. To complete the rout is Benfica, the Portuguese side have previously proved a difficulty for other British clubs and will look to stand in Glasgow Celtic’s way.
Outside of Britain; FC Porto, the 2004 winners, have been drawn in Group A alongside Dynamo Kiev, the second of two Ukrainian teams in the competition this year. PSG, the big spending French team who have signed Zlatan Ibrahimovich and Thiago Silva in this transfer window and are managed by ex-Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti. Completing Group A is Dinamo Zagreb, the Croatian team is back for it’s fourth go in the competition after missing out on Champions league football last season.
In Group C it’s AC Milan, the seven time winners who demolished Arsenal at the San Siro last season, joined by Zenit St. Petersburg, the Russian side have won the Champions League’s sister competition, the UEFA Cup, before but never the real deal. Anderlecht, the reigning Belgian Champions, are the third seeded team in the group. Malaga join fellow Spanish teams Valencia, Barcelona and Real Madrid in the competition ans Milan, Zenit and Anderlecht in the group.
Group F consists of’; last year’s runner’s up Bayern Munich, the German side will be looking for their sixth European cup after coming second twice in recent years to both Chelsea and Inter Milan. Valencia are also in Group F, although it is unlikely that the side will better their previous best of runner’s up in the competition they’ll be hard to beat. Lille may not be a strong as last year having lost Eden Hazard and Joe Cole, they have captured Champions League winner Soloman Kalou and will look to do well in Group F.
So there you have it, the full list of Groups (if you would like a more orderly view head to UEFA’s website). Manchester City have been dealt a huge blow, but as Charlie Nicholas said no defence in Group D will enjoy playing against Tevez and Aguero. Manchester United must have to take a long hard look at themselves if they fail to reach the knockout stages, as will Arsenal. Chelsea may face some degree of difficulty but should come through it unscathed. And as for Celtic, well what can I say?…
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