The UEFA Champions League is only in the group stage but realistically there are only a handful of teams who have a chance to win. So, who are the favorites to win and how are they looking so far? Here’s a look at the favorites to win the Champions League trophy in May and their current form.

FC Barcelona (1)

They’ve looked strong in La Liga and appear ready to make another deep run in this season’s Champions League. Lionel Messi continues to be one of the greatest players in the world and newly signed striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has adapted quickly to the club. Until they are knocked off, they will remain the favorites to repeat.

Chelsea (2)

Right now Chelsea are in great form and could challenge Barcelona for the trophy in May. The transfer window ban could hurt if they have any significant injuries but (fingers crossed) they are firing on all cylinders.

Real Madrid (3)

They spent a ton of money in the offseason and not winning at least one trophy would make this season a disappoint for RM. Ronaldo thrives in the Champions League but won’t have to carry the club with Kaka, Alonso, and Benzema on the roster. They had one slip up in the La Liga but are looking stronger than Man U but just behind Chelsea and Barcelona. They still have to prove that they are for real.

Manchester United (4)

Man U have not impressed so far in the season and will miss Cristiano Ronaldo. They do not appear to have the players to beat Barcelona but could make a signing in the winter transfer window. Sir Alex Ferguson will be able to get United into the knockout stage but right now they would struggle to make the final.

Arsenal (5)

Could this be the year that Arsenal sneaks into the final or actually wins? Well, its possible but not likely. A trip into the quarters or semis is within reach but they will have trouble getting past one of the other favorites. Also, relying on a team youth is prone to inconsist performances, especially on the road.

Liverpool (6)

The team seems a bit lost after losing Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid. Fernando Torres is one of the top strikers but overall the club has disappointed in the past few season. Steven Gerrard and Torres will have to carry this team if they want to knock off Barcelona or Chelsea.

Inter Milan (7)

Will Jose Mourinho’s team be able to have Champions League success? They have shown their ability to dominated in the Serie A but have struggled in the Champions League. A draw in their first two group stage matches is not a good start but they should be able to make the knockout stage. Don’t underestimate Mourinho’s ability as a manager as they could easily make the quarters or semis.

Jonathon Feyerherm is creater and editor of the The 90th Minute Soccer Blog and Free Soccer Highlights