The 2024/25 football season will be remembered as one of the most eventful and enthralling campaigns in recent memory. From shocking upsets to triumphant returns, the season offered fans a healthy dose of drama, competition, and sheer brilliance on the pitch. So how good was the 2024/25 season, really? By analyzing performances across top European leagues, emerging storylines, and standout players, it’s evident that this year’s competition lived up to — and often exceeded — expectations.
Unforgettable Domestic League Campaigns
In England, the Premier League experienced one of its tightest title races in a decade. Three teams — Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool — remained within a few points of each other well into May. Ultimately, Manchester City clinched their fifth title in six years under Pep Guardiola, but not without facing serious pressure. Arsenal’s young squad showed maturity, and Liverpool demonstrated resilience in what was Jurgen Klopp’s final season before announcing his sabbatical from football management.
Over in Spain, the battle between Barcelona and Real Madrid dominated the headlines, but Girona’s unlikely title challenge stunned analysts and fans alike. Though they fell short towards the end, their third-place finish marked a historic achievement and brought fresh excitement to La Liga.
In Italy, Inter Milan asserted their dominance by winning Serie A convincingly, while Bundesliga fans found a new hero in Bayer Leverkusen, who finally dethroned Bayern Munich after more than a decade of hegemony. The German side went unbeaten, and their manager Xabi Alonso earned widespread acclaim for tactical ingenuity and disciplined play.
Standout Players and Rising Talents
Several players rose to prominence this season, earning a place in the global spotlight. Key names include:
- Erling Haaland – Once again dominated the scoring charts in the Premier League and Champions League.
- Jude Bellingham – Captivated audiences in Spain with Real Madrid, continuing his rich vein of form and aiding their Champions League pursuit.
- Florian Wirtz – Central to Leverkusen’s historic run, Wirtz emerged as a generational talent with both technical skill and leadership qualities.
Meanwhile, young stars like Warren Zaïre-Emery (PSG) and Kobbie Mainoo (Man United) earned vital minutes and impressed with maturity far beyond their years. These players are expected to form the backbone of European superclubs in the coming seasons.
European Competitions: A Glorious Return
The UEFA Champions League in 2024/25 delivered some of the most mesmerizing knockout fixtures the competition has seen in years. Real Madrid added to their legendary European status with a 15th Champions League title, narrowly defeating PSG in a pulsating final that ended 3-2. Kylian Mbappé, who announced his upcoming move to Real Madrid earlier in the season, scored for the Parisian side — a full-circle moment that added narrative weight to an already dramatic fixture.
The Europa League also saw dramatic underdog stories unfold. Brighton & Hove Albion, playing in Europe for the first time in club history, reached the semifinals and brought English flair and tactical discipline to the competition. Ultimately, AC Milan secured the title, rejuvenating hopes of their return to the European elite.
Managerial Shake-Ups and Tactical Evolution
This season was also marked by significant managerial movements. Klopp’s exit from Liverpool, Diego Simeone’s surprising departure from Atlético Madrid, and the rise of new managerial forces like Thiago Motta at Bologna reshaped club dynamics and public expectations.
Tactically, this was a season that showcased the evolution of high-pressing systems. Teams increasingly relied on dynamic midfielders and inverted full-backs to build from the back while sustaining relentless pressing up front. Managers experimented with asymmetrical formations, and ball progression from deep-lying playmakers became central once again.
Fan Engagement and Off-the-Pitch Stories
Off the pitch, football in 2024/25 saw a rebound in attendance figures and global engagement. With major stadium renovations, improved VAR systems, and behind-the-scenes content from clubs, the global football community grew even more connected. Notably, the new FIFA club tournament format announced for 2025 raised both excitement and questions among fans.
Social issues remained front and center as well, with clubs actively supporting anti-racism and mental health campaigns. This strengthened football’s role not just as entertainment, but as a force for social good.
Conclusion
So, how good was the 2024/25 football season? In many respects, it was exceptional. Fans were treated to high-quality football, seismic shifts in power, and deep emotional stories that reminded us why we love the game in the first place. Whether you’re a neutral or a die-hard supporter, this season offered something for everyone — a reassurance that football remains the world’s game, alive with drama, talent, and endless potential.