The best early title races to watch around Europe this season

The 2024/25 European football season has been full of drama so far. From the new format of the Champions League making games more unpredictable, to the influx of new managers, players, and tactics, those making a football bet have had a tough time predicting who will be lifting the major trophies come the business end of the campaign. 

While the big leagues in Europe have usually been dominated by the same few sides, there has been disruption across the continent at the start of this season, opening the door for new teams to come and build their own dynasty, both in the big six leagues, and other less watched divisions.  

In this article, we take an early look at some of the best title races to keep an eye on across Europe this season. 

Premier League 

We begin with the Premier League, England’s top flight and one of the most revered leagues in the world. Manchester City have won the last four league titles in a row, but following a difficult run of form and suffering key injuries, the floor could be open to one of Pep Guardiola’s rivals.

Both Liverpool and Arsenal have challenged for the title in recent seasons, with the Gunners coming second on the last two occasions. However, Mikel Arteta’s side have already dropped crucial early points, and it could be Arne Slot’s Reds that steal the show in the Dutchman’s debut campaign. The meeting between Liverpool and City at Anfield in early December will be crucial.

La Liga 

While La Liga is often shared between Barcelona and Real Madrid, it is the latter that has been dominant in the last few years, earning bragging rights in Spain while also winning two Champions Leagues in three seasons. This season looks far more one-sided though, with Hansi Flick in charge of Barca and destroying everyone in his path.

Flick’s side – a blend of experienced European talents and La Masia academy graduates – beat Madrid 4-0 in their first El Classico as a real statement of intent. That said, it’s impossible to rule out Los Blancos, while Atletico Madrid, who spent heavily in the summer window, also follow closely  under Diego Simeone.  

Liga Portugal – Primeira Liga

Ruben Amorim’s appointment as Manchester United manager has turned attention to Portugal, where the battle for the Primeira Liga could be turned on its head by the Sporting manager’s departure from the Jose Alvalade Stadium. 

Current champions Sporting remain unbeaten at the time of writing, with a perfect record of 10 wins in 10 games, yet Porto are hot on their tails, and one slip-up could allow Vítor Bruno’s side back in it. Benfica are also not completely out of the picture, with their side – comprised of experienced talent like Angel Di Maria, Nicolas Otamendi and Renato Sanches — also performing well in Europe. 

Serie A 

The Serie A has restored its reputation as one of the most exciting leagues in Europe following Juventus picking up points deductions. The Italian top flight has seen a different winner each season since 2019-20, making the Scudetto one of the toughest title races to call.

Napoli, who won the league for the first time in 30 years in 2023, are back in the title picture under Antonio Conte. Gli Azzurri leapfrogged reigning champions Inter to top the table, while just three points separate Conte’s side from Atalanta, Fiorentina, and Lazio, with Juve just a point behind them. It could be a six-way chase for the title heading into Italy’s winter break.