Champions League: Picking a Combined XI From Teams in Group G

The Champions League returned to our screens this week, and there are few groups more mouth-watering than Group G. Boasting the competition's two all time top goalscorers, everyone should be keeping an eye on this group.

The group began very much as you'd expect. Juventus saw off Dynamo Kiev 2-0 with a brace from Alvaro Morata, while Barcelona comfortably dismantled Ferencvaros at the Camp Nou.

Next week's fixtures, however, is where things ought to get tasty. Ronald Koeman's side travel to Turin to take on the Italian giants, in a game which could see the infamous Messi vs. Ronaldo rivalry rekindled (depending on whether the Portuguese forward recovers from COVID-19 in time).

Anyway, with the first round of games out of the way, here is our combined XI from the teams in group G (spoilers: it's mostly Barcelona and Juventus).

1. Goalkeeper and Defenders

Marc-Andre ter Stegen (GK) - Currently sidelined with a knee injury, the German is one of the world's best goalkeepers. Former Arsenal stopper Wojciech Szczesny could've also been picked for this spot, but Ter Stegen's speed off his line and ability with his feet just about edge him in front.

Juan Cuadrado (RB) - The 32-year-old has played most of his career as a winger, so it's no surprise that he's now one of the planet's most productive full-backs. On Tuesday, his inch-perfect cross was converted by Alvaro Morata to put La Vecchia Signora out of sight in Ukraine.

Gerard Pique (CB) - Pique's Champions League campaign didn't get off to the greatest of starts, receiving a red card last time out. However, the veteran is still playing to an exceptionally high standard. His composure and reading of the game is almost unmatched.

Giorgio Chiellini (CB) - Completing what would be one of the world's oldest centre-back partnerships, Giorgio Chiellini is still a top class defender. The 36-year-old's absence last season was noticeable, as I Bianconeri conceded 43 league goals; they hadn't conceded more than 30 since 2010/11.

Jordi Alba (LB) - A constant threat down the left, the Spaniard makes it into the XI over Brazilian Alex Sandro. Alba's pace, energy, and connection with Lionel Messi have been notable features of Barcelona's system for the last few years.

2. Midfielders

Frenkie de Jong (CM) - At 23 years of age, there is no doubt that Frenkie de Jong has the potential to be one of the best midfielders in the world. His time in La Liga hasn't always been smooth, but he still shows flashes of what he can do. The Dutchman's exquisite assist for Ansu Fati on Tuesday is just one example of this.

Philippe Coutinho (CM) - After 18 months of disappointment, it seemed as if Philippe Coutinho's career at the Camp Nou was coming to an end, especially after being loaned out to Bayern Munich. However, the Brazilian looks completely rejuvenated under Ronald Koeman, scoring and assisting twice so far this term.

Paulo Dybala (CAM) - His career at Juventus has often come into question, but last season Paulo Dybala really proved what he was all about. The Argentine netted 11 league goals and registered a further six assists as he won the Serie A MVP award.

3. Forwards

Viktor Tsykankov (RW) - The only non-Barcelona/Juventus player to make it into this team, Dynamo Kiev's Viktor Tsyhankov is one of Ukrainian football's brightest talents. Playing out on the right, Tsyhankov boasts an impressive goal record in the Ukrainian Premier League, netting 51 in 110. And while the standard of football in Ukraine may not impress you, perhaps his goals against France and Spain in the latest international break will. At just 22 years old, it's surely only a matter of time before Tsyhankov gets his chance in a major league.

Lionel Messi (ST) - Do I really need to explain why Lionel Messi gets into this team?

Cristiano Ronaldo (LW) - Again, no explanation needed. Ah, Messi and Ronaldo in the same side. Will it ever happen? Highly unlikely, but hey - a man can dream, can't he?