Real Madrid clinched their 15th UEFA Champions League title in an unforgettable 2023-24 campaign, reinforcing their dominance in European football. Their triumph capped a season filled with spectacular performances and memorable moments. As the dust settles on another thrilling edition of the competition, it’s time to recognise the standout players who left an indelible mark on the tournament.
The Champions League Team of the Season for 2023-24 showcases the creme de la creme of European football, featuring stars who consistently delivered exceptional performances, demonstrating skill, resilience, and brilliance on the grandest stage. This elite squad includes players who not only shone for Real Madrid but also those from other clubs who displayed remarkable talent and contributed significantly to the drama and excitement of the tournament.
As we celebrate Real Madrid’s unparalleled achievement, we also honor the players who made the 2023-24 season truly extraordinary.
Goalkeeper: Gregor Kobel – Borussia Dortmund
Borussia Dortmund’s journey to the Champions League final was built on a foundation of defensive solidity, with Gregor Kobel standing tall as their last line of defence. The Swiss goalkeeper emerged as a key figure throughout the campaign, leading the competition in clean sheets with six shutouts. His commanding presence and shot-stopping ability were pivotal, especially in high-pressure moments. Despite ending up on the losing side in the final, Kobel’s performance at Wembley was nothing short of heroic, with several spectacular saves that highlighted his season-long brilliance. His contributions were essential in Dortmund’s remarkable run, and he has cemented his reputation as one of Europe’s top goalkeepers.
A special mention is due to Andriy Lunin, who began the season as the third-choice goalkeeper at Real Madrid. Lunin stepped up significantly during the campaign, playing a crucial part in Real Madrid’s success. Despite his unfortunate omission from the final, his performances throughout the season were commendable and pivotal to the team’s journey to the title.
Right Back: Dani Carvajal – Real Madrid
Dani Carvajal has been a linchpin in Real Madrid’s defence and an unsung hero in their recent dominance of the Champions League. His experience and tenacity were on full display throughout the campaign, particularly in critical moments of the tournament. Carvajal’s defensive solidity and ability to push forward effectively made him an invaluable asset. His goal in the final not only turned the tide of the match but also underscored his ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most. Carvajal’s leadership and determination have been pivotal in Real Madrid’s success, and his contributions have been integral to their record-extending 15th European crown. What a remarkable career he has had.
Centre Back: Mats Hummels – Borussia Dortmund
Mats Hummels turned back the clock with an outstanding campaign, showcasing the experience and defensive prowess that have defined his career. The veteran defender led the tournament in several defensive metrics, including clearances (69), interceptions (25), and tackles (53), demonstrating his invaluable presence at the heart of Dortmund’s defence. Despite his exceptional performances, his omission from Germany’s Euro 2024 squad remains a mystery to many. Hummels’ campaign has been a masterclass in defensive play, and his efforts were central to Dortmund’s success in reaching the final. His experience and leadership have been vital, making him one of the standout performers of the season.
Centre Back: Antonio Rudiger – Real Madrid
Antonio Rudiger has been a cornerstone of Real Madrid’s defense in a season marked by significant injuries to key players. The German defender’s resilience and consistency have been crucial for Carlo Ancelotti’s side. Known for his physicality and robust defending, Rudiger relishes one-on-one battles against the world’s best forwards and often comes out on top. Rudiger’s ability to stay calm under pressure and deliver when it counts has been instrumental in Real Madrid’s successful campaign. His performances have exemplified leadership and defensive excellence, making him an indispensable part of Real Madrid’s record-extending 15th Champions League title.
Left Back: Ian Maatsen – Borussia Dortmund
Ian Maatsen’s rise this season has been nothing short of meteoric. Just a year ago, he was plying his trade in the Championship with Burnley, and now he has played a pivotal role in Borussia Dortmund’s run to the Champions League final. Maatsen’s journey from a loan spell at Burnley to becoming a key player for Dortmund has been remarkable. Arriving on loan from Chelsea in January, he quickly adapted to the demands of top-tier European football, providing solidity at the back and adding depth to Dortmund’s attacking plays. His growth and performances suggest that Chelsea could benefit from integrating him into their first team next season. Maatsen’s campaign has been a testament to his talent and potential.
Midfield: Rodri – Manchester City
Rodri’s contributions to Manchester City’s midfield have been nothing short of phenomenal, even as their title defence ended in the quarter-finals. The Spanish midfielder has been a model of consistency and excellence, providing the backbone for City’s dynamic play. His ability to dictate the tempo and control the game has been crucial, leading the Champions League in progressive passes by a significant margin. Trailing only Toni Kroos in passes into the final third, Rodri’s influence was evident throughout the tournament.
His status as the best in the world at his role remains undisputed, and his performances this season have only solidified this reputation.
Midfield: Toni Kroos – Real Madrid
Toni Kroos has ended his illustrious club career in the perfect fashion, celebrating a sixth Champions League triumph at Wembley. The German midfielder has been a model of consistency, elegance, and precision throughout his career, and this season was no different.. Kroos’s performances this season have been a fitting swansong, as he played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s journey to their 15th European crown. His leadership, experience, and technical prowess will be sorely missed, not just by Real Madrid but by the football world. Kroos has left an indelible mark on the sport, and his final season was a reminder of his enduring class and quality.
Midfield: Jude Bellingham – Real Madrid
Jude Bellingham’s debut season at Real Madrid has been nothing short of extraordinary. The 20-year-old Englishman joined the Spanish giants and immediately made an impact, contributing significantly to their domestic and European successes. Bellingham started the Champions League campaign on fire, with four goals and three assists during the group stages, showcasing his ability to perform on the biggest stage. His selfless performance as a focal point at Manchester City was particularly noteworthy, as it helped relieve pressure and allowed his team to maintain control. Adding assists against RB Leipzig and in the final win over his former side Dortmund, Bellingham finished as the top assist provider (5) in the Champions League this season. His dream debut season at Real Madrid, capped with La Liga and Champions League winner’s medals, has firmly established him as one of the brightest young talents in world football.
Right Wing: Phil Foden – Manchester City
Phil Foden’s stellar season at Manchester City has catapulted him into the upper echelons of football. At just 23, Foden was named Premier League Player of the Season for 2023-24, a testament to his remarkable consistency and influence on the pitch. In the Champions League, Foden was instrumental in City’s run to the quarter-finals, proving himself as a pivotal player in Pep Guardiola’s squad. Leading the competition in shot-creating actions, Foden showcased his creativity and attacking prowess, contributing five goals and three assists. His performances in the group stage were particularly outstanding, highlighted by a stunning goal at the Bernabeu against Real Madrid.
Left Wing: Vinicius Junior – Real Madrid
Vinicius Junior is quickly becoming one of the most decisive players in world football. The Brazilian winger’s explosive pace and dazzling footwork have made him a nightmare for defenders, and his impact in the Champions League has been profound. This season, Vinicius was once again crucial in Real Madrid’s triumphant campaign, contributing six goals and five assists. His ability to come alive in crucial moments, particularly in the knockout stages, has made him indispensable to Real Madrid’s success. Vinicius’s performance in the final, where he scored yet again, marked him as only the second player after Lionel Messi to score in two Champions League finals before turning 24. With the Copa America on the horizon, a strong campaign could bolster his contention for the Ballon d’Or, cementing his status as one of the best players in the world.
Forward: Harry Kane – Bayern Munich
Harry Kane led Bayern Munich’s charge to the Champions League semi-finals, showcasing his lethal finishing and all-around forward play. The English striker ended the 2023-24 Champions League as the joint leading scorer, tied with Kylian Mbappe, each boasting an impressive tally of goals. Kane’s 12 goal involvements, comprising goals and assists, were the highest in the competition, highlighting his dual threat as both a scorer and a creator. This season, Kane has solidified his reputation as the best out-and-out forward in the game, demonstrating his clinical nature in front of goal and his ability to link play effectively.