The Premier League's claim as the top league is questionable; after the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals, with 2 draws and 4 losses, three teams are essentially eliminated.

Prior to the start of the Champions League knockout phase, the Premier League was in a splendid position. This season, nine Premier League clubs competed across three European tournaments, all progressing to the knockout rounds, including six making it to the quarter-finals. Yet, following the first leg results, the assertion that the Premier League is the foremost league no longer holds true. The six sides managed only 2 draws and 4 defeats, failing to secure any victories, and three teams are nearly out of the competition!

Galatasaray 1-0LiverpoolLiverpool being defeated twice by the Turkish league powerhouse in the Champions League is somewhat embarrassing! But with only a one-goal deficit, returning to Anfield, Liverpool has a higher probability of advancing.

Atalanta 1-6 Bayern Munich: This essentially means Bayern has already secured their spot in the Champions League quarter-finals!

Atletico Madrid 5-2TottenhamFormer Manchester City forward Alvarez, with two goals and an assist plus a perfect performance, has practically sent Tottenham back to focus on Premier League survival. Staying in the Premier League is more important than anything else.

Newcastle1-1 Barcelona: Dominating but not winning, Newcastle's late equalizer conceded via a Barcelona penalty was unfortunate. Going to Camp Nou will be tough, but hope Guimarães returns soon. Newcastle still has a chance to advance; counter-attacks are straightforward and effective tactics, beneficial for underdog teams to perform and create upset opportunities.

Leverkusen 1-1ArsenalA draw is somewhat disappointing for the Premier League leaders, but back at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal still has a good chance of progressing.

Bodø/Glimt 3-0 Sporting CP: Bodø/Glimt, from failing to win in six Champions League matches this season to securing five consecutive victories, is now halfway into the quarter-finals, continuing their underdog story.

Paris 5-2ChelseaParis avenged the Club World Cup final defeat; a three-goal gap basically eliminates any suspense. Chelsea should focus on securing fifth place in the Premier League! Having Champions League next season is more crucial than anything.

Real Madrid 3-0Manchester CityFearing counter-attacks, Haaland disappears against strong opponents, Guardiola tinkers too much, and a depleted Real Madrid side thrashed Manchester City by three goals. Novice coach Alvaro defeated champion coach Guardiola. Obsessed with Haaland, losing Alvarez and lacking De Bruyne, Manchester City is weakening, becoming fragile. They are nearly out of the Champions League and falling behind in the Premier League title race. Guardiola should aim for the League Cup or FA Cup instead! Ending the season empty-handed twice is not a good look! Lastly, one more critique: the €200 million Haaland is severely overrated!