Former Premier League Stars Headline Asian Champions League Kickoff
The AFC Champions League Elite, Asia‘s premier club competition, begins Monday featuring a surge of former Premier League talent aiming to make their mark on the continental stage. The expanded tournament, boasting increased prize money and prestige, pits some of Asia’s top clubs against each other in a battle for regional supremacy and a coveted spot in the FIFA Club World Cup.
This year’s competition marks a important shift in the Asian football landscape, with Saudi clubs heavily investing in international stars and emerging as strong contenders. Simultaneously, established powers from japan and South Korea face challenges from rising teams and the influx of experienced players from Europe. The tournament’s expanded format and increased competitiveness promise a thrilling season for fans across the continent.
Chilean goalkeeper Lawrence Vigouroux was recently in action, making a crucial save during a World Cup 2026 qualifying match against Uruguay on september 9, 2025, at National Stadium in Santiago, Chile. (AP/Esteban Felix)
Two-time champion Al-Ittihad is banking on the star power of Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante, both former European champions, to replicate their success in Asia.
In the East zone, former Manchester United and England star jesse Lingard is spearheading FC Seoul’s campaign. Lingard joined the K-League team in 2023 and quickly became a fan favorite, eventually earning the captain’s armband. “Now, we have to compete in the league as well as the AFC Champions League Elite,” Lingard said. ”As captain, I will do my best to help the team achieve good results.”
FC Seoul coach Kim Ki-dong is entrusting Lingard with increased obligation, recognizing the value of his experience. “He has played for england and in the premier League,but this will be his first AFC Champions League,” kim said. ”I know he’s really looking forward to this and he’s working hard for it.”
While South Korea boasts the most overall titles in Asian club competitions with 12, the nation has seen limited recent success, with only one winner as 2016. Japanese clubs have historically provided the strongest opposition to Saudi dominance, tho Kawasaki Frontale, who defeated Al-Nassr in the April semifinals, did not qualify for this year’s tournament. J-League champion Vissel Kobe is considered a strong contender, but Ulsan of South Korea remains the only previous champion among the 12 eastern teams.
