With seven former European Cup winners in the hat, there will certainly be no shortage of European pedigree on show. Germany contributed both of last season's finalists and have four representatives in the last 16 this time. Holders FC Bayern München survived a late charge from Manchester City FC to finish first in their section, but could still face the likes of seven-time winners AC Milan or Arsenal FC in the last 16. Are Josep Guardiola's charges the team to avoid?The Gunners are unseeded after being unseated on matchday six by 2012/13 runners-up Borussia Dortmund, who will look to dodge possible opponents such as City, the Rossoneri and Galatasaray AŞ. Indeed, Manuel Pellegrini's side will be one that many of the group winners will want to steer clear of, with Real Madrid CF, Paris Saint-Germain and FC Barcelona among the clubs who could be pitted against the knockout phase debutants.City's domestic rivals Manchester United FC belied their Premier League travails to top Group A, but any of Galatasaray, Olympiacos FC, FC Schalke 04, FC Zenit and Milan lie in wait. While David Moyes's men cannot land Arsenal because of the country protection rule at this stage, the Gunners could pose a significant threat to the likes of Barcelona, whom they have met twice in the past four seasons.
Group winners
Manchester United FC (ENG), Real Madrid CF (ESP), Paris Saint-Germain (FRA), FC Bayern München (GER, holders), Chelsea FC (ENG), Borussia Dortmund (GER), Club Atlético de Madrid (ESP), FC Barcelona (ESP)
Group runners-up
Bayer 04 Leverkusen (GER), Galatasaray AŞ (TUR), Olympiacos FC (GRE), Manchester City FC (ENG), FC Schalke 04 (GER), Arsenal FC (ENG), FC Zenit (RUS), AC Milan (ITA)
Would they fare better now? Which ties would you like to see when the UEFA Champions League round of 16 draw is made in Nyon on Monday 17 December? Leave your comments below.
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