The Champions League is back — but somebody forgot to invite Chelsea. 😭 The Five Aside crew breaks down the opening European action, from Arsenal grinding out a big away win and Barcelona’s terrifying attack to Liverpool’s shaky start and Real Madrid doing what Real Madrid always do: somehow winning.

Plus, we debate whether Erling Haaland is already entering GOAT goalscorer territory, make our way-too-early Champions League winner predictions, and enter the Ballon d’Or trenches over Harry Kane, Olise, Mbappé, Bruno, Messi and more. And yes, AK gets absolutely cooked for watching Carabao Cup football on a Champions League night.

Timestamps

0:00 – Intro

0:27 – Intro / banter, Chelsea vs Leeds (Carabao Cup) reactions

3:16 – Chelsea's tactical issues under Alonso, midfield problems

16:00 – Real Madrid vs Inter Mil ...