What to expect from the British clubs in the Champions League this week

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Can Manchester City re-ignite their challenge? Can Arsenal get back at Schalke? Lewis Doe asks the important questions ahead of this week’s ties.

The Champions League returns this week with all of the British clubs under pressure to get wins and progress to the last 16. Here is what to expect from each side.

Manchester City

Manchester City have home advantage as they take on Ajax at the Etihad Stadium. City are rock bottom of their group and quite simply need a big win if they are going to make it into the first knock out stage. Expect a fast start from City as they try to blitz Ajax out of the game inside the first half an hour. If Ajax can withstand this and show the same attacking skill in the reverse win, it could be the end of the blue half of Manchester.

Arsenal

Arsenal travel away to group leaders Schalke looking for some revenge over the German side who beat them 2-0 in London. Arsenal are under less pressure than some of the other British clubs. They are just a point behind Schalke so don’t expect to see them flying out of the traps and going for a big win. This will be a classic display of counter attacking football and Arsenal would settle for a draw if it was offered.

Manchester United

Manchester United are in the best position out of any British side. They have three wins from three and travel away to Braga, who they beat 3-2 at Old Trafford. Defensively they looked better over the weekend but don’t expect fireworks. This will be a classic 4-5-1 from United who will be looking to steal a win with the odd goal. They would take a draw because they are five points clear of Cluj who are in second place.

Celtic

Celtic have the privilege of hosting Barcelona at home this week. They are five points behind Barcelona in second place in their group. They will be trying simply not to lose the match. The home support will urge the team on but the supporters may be frustrated as Celtic need to resist this natural instinct. If they are too open then Barcelona will simply sit back and wait for their chance to pick off Celtic at will.

Chelsea

Chelsea take on Shakhtar Donetsk at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea were appalling in the 2-0 defeat they suffered away in Ukraine but expect a totally different performance in this game. A win for Chelsea would put them level on points with Shakhtar and top of the group on goal difference. The emphasis will be on attack with the trio of Eden Hazard, Oscar and Juan Mata all expected to feature heavily throughout.

image: © Jan S0L0