Yohannes Caldentey: MVP Rankings for 18 UWCL Teams

The UEFA Women’s Champions League (UWCL) will kick off soon with a new format and all 18 clubs competing in six league-phase games before the knockout rounds. This tournament showcases Europe’s top clubs and provides an opportunity for current and future stars to shine. Let’s take a look at some of the standout players from each team this season.

Arsenal:
Mariona Caldentey, 29, CM
Caldentey had a stellar season in the Women’s Super League (WSL), earning the player of the season title in her debut season with Arsenal. She led the team to their second European title and showcased her versatility by excelling in multiple roles. Her ability to impact the game both on and off the ball was evident through her impressive stats, such as most progressive passes, most passes into the penalty box, and most tackles in the final third.

Atlético Madrid:
Fiamma Benitez, 21, AM
Atlético Madrid is back in the UWCL after a four-year absence, with young talent like Fiamma Benitez leading the charge. The 21-year-old midfielder is known for her playmaking abilities, with nine assists in the league last season. She excels at creating chances with well-measured passes and is a threat on goal with her ability to score from long range and in the air.

Barcelona:
Patri Guijarro, 27, DM
While not always in the spotlight like her teammates, Guijarro is a crucial player for Barcelona. She is a midfield maestro known for her precise passing and play progression skills. Despite not being the primary chance creator, she recorded the most passes into the final third in the UWCL last season and had the joint-most assists. Guijarro’s consistency makes her indispensable to Barcelona’s style of play.

Bayern Munich:
Lena Oberdorf, 23, CM
Oberdorf made a strong impression in her Bayern Munich debut after recovering from an ACL injury. The versatile midfielder is known for her ball distribution, ground coverage, and ability to provide a solid defensive presence. She is also a goal threat from range and set pieces, making her a well-rounded player in the midfield.

Benfica:
Caroline Møller, 26, AM/ST
Møller brings UWCL experience from her time at Real Madrid and is known for her physicality and ability to hold off challenges as a support striker. Her partnership with teammate Cristina Martín-Prieto could be a key attacking force for Benfica this season.

Chelsea:
Keira Walsh, 28, DM
Walsh is a key player for Chelsea, known for her ability to control the tempo of the game and stitch play from defense to attack. She provides stability and security in midfield, crucial for Chelsea’s European ambitions.

Juventus:
Cristiana Girelli, 35, ST
Girelli’s experience and goal-scoring instincts were on display during Italy’s successful Euro 2025 campaign. She is a proven goal scorer with excellent aerial ability and movement inside the box, making her a constant threat for Juventus.

These players are ones to watch in this season’s UWCL, and their performances will be crucial for their respective teams’ success in the tournament.