Football Champions

Apparently, anointing Manchester United as English Premier League champions was a bit premature after all. Because after today's results, the gap between first-placed Man United and second-placed Manchester City is a mere five points.

There are five games left, including an uber-crucial Manchester derby (pronounced dar-bee) on April 30. In other words, there is everything left to play for.

If you're surprised at this turn of events, you're surely not alone. Forty-eight hours ago, Man United appeared to be in cruise control to repeat as champions and capture their fifth Premiership title in the last six years (and eighth in the last 13, if you're counting that far back). City had just imploded at the Emirates after dropping points at home against Sunderland the week prior. Roberto Mancini's men didn't seem capable of anything, even beating a 13th-placed club, much less by four goals to nothing. Yet that's exactly what happened today, as Citizens dropped West Bromwich Albion by 4-0.

More surprising still was United's loss to Wigan today, less than two days after looking so superior to Queens Park Rangers, whom Latics are battling for relegation (interestingly enough, QPR won today as well and like Wigan are clear of the drop zone, at least for now). It's unlike Sir Alex Ferguson to let his team become complacent so close to the end of the season, even with an eight point lead. With City having the edge in goal difference and the April 30 derby match taking place at Eastlands, Red Devils nation has reason to be worried.

If there's a bright spot for Man U, it's that City have the tougher schedule the rest of the way. The Sky Blues visit Newcastle, who will likely playing for a spot in the Champions League, on the penultimate matchday. City also play at 10th-placed Norwich (it's pronounced Norridge), while United play only one game away from Manchester, at Sunderland, on the last day of the season. Man U's other matches are against Aston Villa, who are crap, and Swansea, who are fading fast, having lost their last four in a row.

Still, it's not out of the question that United will drop points once or even twice, in addition to losing the derby match. The next couple of matchdays will be crucial. If City drop points in either of their next two games, at Norwich and Wolverhampton, while United take the maximum from theirs, it will in all likelihood be over. If the opposite happens, the April 30 grudgematch will take on an even greater significance. Either way, it's going to be tense. So buckle up!

It's an off year for English football. Despite all the money and hype, amid all the allegations of racist abuse and "handshakegate"s and other drama, English teams have consistently come up short in international competitions.

Take Arsenal. Here is a team that sit fourth in the English Premier League, which is good enough to make the UEFA Champions League next year. Other than one embarrassing display at Old Trafford in late August, Gunners have looked fully capable of hanging with the best teams in England.

Today, against AC Milan in the first elimination round of this year's UCL tourney, Gunners looked more like a youth side taking on the senior club -- or if you prefer a U.S.-centric comparison, the JVs facing the varsity. Either way, it wasn't pretty. Arsene Wenger's men were outplayed, outhustled and overwhelmed by the rossoneri, going down 4-0 in a game that frankly didn't look that close. The teams really didn't look like they belonged on the same pitch at the same time. Milan's pace was far faster, their passing crisper, their marking tighter. They made better runs in attack. Their goalkeeping was better. This was Arsenal's worst-ever defeat in European competition and one that, barring a miracle in the return leg, will leave them with nothing but the FA Cup and fourth place in the Prem to play for.

And it's not just Arse, either. Neither Manchester club (currently 1-2 in the Premiership) made it out of the group stage of this year's Champions League. That's just embarrassing considering the payroll disparities between the Mancunians and their group stage opponents, particularly in Man U's case (Otelul Gulati and FC Basel? Really?).

Or take the Europa League. Tottenham Hotspur were drawn into a group with teams from Ireland, Russia and Greece (Greece!) and couldn't even finish second. This is a club, Spurs, that are supposed to have a realistic shot at winning the league in the first time in (what might as well be) centuries. Birmingham City and Fulham didn't make it out of their groups either. I know there's a big gap between those clubs and the ones at the top of the Premiership table, but come on. Interestingly enough, the team with the toughest Europa League draw, Stoke City, actually qualified for the elimination round.

All of which begs the question: is this just a one year anomaly we are looking at? Or is the sun finally setting on the Premiership empire? Time will tell, but the signs are ominous. Last year's Champions League finale showed us just how far the gap has widened between the best team from Spain and its English counterpart. This year's Champions League and Europa League group stages demonstrated that English clubs at the very least play down to the level of inferior opponents, if they can indeed be called that. Today we saw that the fourth-placed Premiership side were little more than target practice for the top team in Italy.

What is the cause of this? That is another topic for another day but suffice it to say that it can't be economic, given all the petro and oligarch cash that has flooded the Premiership in recent years. That would mean that the players are certainly still world class. What about the coaching? We can sing the praises of Sir Alex and Arsene Wenger and Harry Redknapp and others, and deservedly so, but maybe, just maybe their counterparts on the continent have overtaken them. Arsenal especially just seem to lack something this season that could suggest Wenger has lost his magic touch. Do English teams maybe have a handicap when it comes to fitness levels? Have they gotten sloppy with their defending? These things deserve a look. Stay tuned.

Bayern Munich showed remarkable resilience today coming back from a 3-0 deficit at Old Trafford to advance to the semifinals of the UEFA Champions League. In fact, one could almost say Bayern today slayed the ghosts of the 1999 final at Camp Nou. Well, maybe not. But you've got to give the German club credit for pulling it off.

As a Yank, I generally don't like standing up for anything English. Or anything German. Or anything, well un-American. As we know they're all communists and commies simply can't be trusted. But U.S. hegemony does have its limits in a few areas and association football, a.k.a. soccer, is one (another might be door handles. What's with these stupid round things we have here? I mean seriously. Wouldn't it just be easier to make them a lever the way they do elsewhere in the world? It's such a pain in the arse when you're carrying something and have to reach down and twist this stupid thing instead of just being able to lean on it and presto!)

Anyway, the English Premier League is still the best league in the world even though none of its teams are in the Champions League's final four. Here's why:

1. Had Wayne Rooney been healthy there's no way Man United lose this game and

2. The elimination round draws did English clubs no favors whatsoever.

Arsenal, arguably the worst of three English teams in the elimination round, were drawn with the best club in the entire world in the quarterfinals. Chelsea were drawn with a top five side in the round of 16. Man United got AC Milan in the round of 16, who may not be Barcelona but they sure aren't VfB Stuttgart either (whom Barcelona drew). In fact, the draws were a bit of a joke in retrospect. CSKA Moscow vs. Sevilla? Bayern and Fiorentina? Olympiakos vs. Bordeaux? There can really be no argument that English clubs got the short end of the stick here.

Of course, that's life. A random draw is a random draw (unless it's conducted by FIFA, that is). Sometimes the chips fall in your favor, sometimes they do not. But when they don't and you're tasked with playing grueling two-leg matchups against top clubs along with a domestic campaign in the world's toughest league it wears on you. Injuries happen (see Rooney, Wayne). You let your guard down. Especially when, for example, you have a 3-0 lead minutes before halftime.

Again that's not to make excuses for tonight's events at Old Trafford. Bayern were the better team over two legs and deserved to advance. As a matter of fact, if you look at the two teams' top 25 rankings going into this match-up, you'll see that they were not really far apart at all. Bayern was 7, Man U at 2 (the previous week they were even closer together at 5 and 3, respectively). So it really isn't that big of an upset. Especially not once the higher-rated team's best player is removed from the equation.

So as far as I'm concerned the Premiership still reigns. It will take a lot more for me to change my mind on this.

For ranking methodology and other information about the series, see the original post. To read the about the No. 4-rated stadium, the Estadio Centenario in Montevideo, Uruguay, click here. To see all "soccer mecca" entries click here.

No. 3 Old Trafford, Manchester and Anfield, Liverpool
Open since: 1910 (Old Trafford); 1884 (Anfield)
Capacity: ~75,000 (Old Trafford); ~45,000 (Anfield)
Tenant: Manchester United (Old Trafford); Liverpool FC (Anfield)
World Cup hosts: 1966 (Old Trafford)

Deciding not to decide is admittedly a bit of cop-out; but I didn't want to face the wrath of one side's supporters and be accused of harboring anti- (or pro-) feelings toward either club. I also really wanted to make this a top 10 list. Top 11 is not as nice a number, and therefore not as marketable. And as you know it's all about the money for me. Why else become a soccer blogger? If I wanted to do something nice for society I'd be a banker or something. Seriously though, necessity obviously played a role in choosing two grounds for the third-biggest soccer mecca in the world. However, the truth is that a fair objective decision (or what passes for one given the criteria at our disposal) would have been extremely difficult, if not impossible. Compelling arguments exist in support of both stadia. Old Trafford is bigger and played host to a World Cup, goes one. Anfield is older and has more of an "iconic value" in part for this reason, goes another. Well, great. Rather than fight about that let's just discuss both grounds. Old Trafford goes first because it's bigger and hosted World Cup matches. Plus this year is the 100 year anniversary of the ground's opening. The Guardian did a terrific retrospective in February that you should really read for yourself. But here is my bit:

Old Trafford
The stadium was designed by a Scotsman, Archibald Leitch, the same guy who designed Glasgow's Hampden Park (ranked fifth in our list of soccer meccas). For some reason Old Trafford hosted the FA Cup final in 1911 and 1915. The stadium was heavily damaged in World War II, apparently because the Germans wanted to preemptively avenge Bayern Munich's last minute loss to Manchester United in the 1999 Champions League final. Man United had to play the 1946-49 seasons at Maine Road while Old Trafford was rebuilt--exactly the way it was before the war. It would quickly change, however. Renovations took place in the 1950s and 60s and Old Trafford holds the dubious distinction of being the first ground to erect perimeter fencing, which it did in the 1970s. These were removed when it was converted to an all-seater in 1994.

The 1994 renovation spelled the end of the beloved (by home fans at least) Stretford End, though many still refer to the stadium's west end as such. "Theatre of Dreams," a paper of sorts published on Villanova University's Web site has the following to say about the Stretford End:

"Crammed behind the goal was a heaving mass of almost 20,000 standing United fans who were amongst the loudest in Britain. It was once measured that the roar from the crowd was louder than a Jumbo Jet taking off."

The last game played in front of the famous old terrace was a 3-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur on May 2, 1992.

Old Trafford has hosted its share of famous matches, but the 1966 World Cup games don't exactly make the cut. All were group stage games and none saw very big crowds. In the first, Portugal defeated Hungary 3-1 in front of 37,000. Portugal played (and won) the second match against Bulgaria by 3-0 in front of 26,000. In the third, Hungary saw off Bulgaria by 3-0 in a match that was only significant because it meant defending champions Brazil would not make the elimination round. The Brazilians, with Pele, had earlier lost 3-1 to Portugal in a game played at Goodison Park.

Thirty years later Old Trafford was one of the main stages for Euro 96. Eventual champions Germany played their group stage matches here, winning the first two (2-1 over the Czech Republic and 3-0 over Russia) and drawing the third (0-0 against Italy). As group winners Germany then faced Croatia in the quarterfinals at Old Trafford, winning 2-1 (Croatia would win the rematch two years later at the World Cup quarterfinal in France). Old Trafford then was the stage for a tense semifinal between France and the Czech Republic, won by the Czechs on penalties.

Okay, none of these will exactly go down in the annals of soccer history. In fact, for the first 35 years of its life, Old Trafford saw little that would make the history books. Man United were a "yo-yo club" in the 1920s and 30s, switching between the top two divisions several times. It wasn't until the arrival of Matt Busby in 1945 that this changed for good (well, until 1974 at least, which we'll get to in a minute).

The 1957 European Cup semifinal pitted Man United against defending title holders Real Madrid. It was just the second year of the tournament that is today known as the UEFA Champions League, and Man U's first as a participant. Busby's babes were defeated 5-3 on aggregate but the game presented them with a measuring stick that likely would have been breached sooner had it not been for the 1959 Munich air disaster.

Less than two weeks after the tragedy, United returned to Old Trafford. The matchday programs of what would become a 3-0 victory over Sheffield Wednesday read "United Will Go On". Blank spaces were left where the names of the eight deceased players would have been.

In 1965, Busby's side won their first championship on a Monday night at Old Trafford on goals by Denis Law (2x) and George Best.

Three years later, their first European title would finally follow. The European Cup semifinal against Real Madrid was one of the most epic match-ups in the history of club football, though most of the drama took place at the Bernabeu in the return leg. Man U won the first leg at Old Trafford on a goal by Best. Busby's side advanced after a 3-3 draw in Madrid and went on to defeat Benfica for the first-ever European Cup won by an English club.

The 70s and 80s were a tough time for United, but there were a few moments of glory at Old Trafford nonetheless. In 1984, Ron Atkinson's Red Devils faced Barcelona in the quarterfinals of the old Cup winners' cup. They were given little chance against a side that featured Diego Maradona (by then the consensus best player in the world, or close to it), especially after losing the first leg at Camp Nou by 2-0. But led by Bryan Robson, Man U rallied and five minutes after halftime the sides were level. Frank Stapleton got United the winner. They would lose the semifinal to Juventus (with Michel Platini). The BBC revisited the encounter a few years ago. Check it out.

Man U and Real Madrid would meet again in 2003 in the Champions League quarterfinals. This time Real came out winners. After winning the first leg 3-1, the return leg at Old Trafford became one of the more thrilling games you'll witness anywhere. In the end Ronaldo (the Brazilian one) proved too much for Red Devils, scoring thrice. David Beckham came on as a substitute and scored twice but it was not enough. Man U won the return leg 4-3 but bowed out on aggregate, 6-5. Too bad, because that was the year the Champions League final was played at Old Trafford. In May 2003 it hosted a rather anticlimactic affair between AC Milan and Juventus, which Milan won on penalties after a 0-0 draw.

Of course some of the most spirited matches were domestic--or even municipal--battles.
The Independent has a series of the 10 best Manchester derbies of all time. Rather than plagiarize reference it in part we suggest you read it in whole at the source itself. Among matches played at Old Trafford, the following stand out (only the Denis Law game is on the Independent's list. The rest were located via independent research):

In 1926, Manchester City won 6-1. I don't believe either club has scored that many goals in the Manchester derby since. The margin of victory was itself a record for nearly 30 years until...

...it was matched in 1955, with City winning 5-0.

On April 27, 1974, United hosted City on the penultimate matchday. In what became known as the Denis Law game, the Scotsman (and former United man, as we have seen) scored his last goal ever as a professional. The cheeky backheel (links to YouTube clip of the goal) won the game for City 1-0. United were relegated to the old Division Two, though not as a result of that game as is often reported (they would have gone down regardless).

In March 1991, a 17-year old Welshman by the name of Ryan Giggs scored the first goal of his career in a Manchester derby. The goal decided the match in United's favor (1-0).

The following December, a certain Frenchman named Eric Cantona made his debut for United in the first Manchester derby of the Premiership era. Cantona went on to score eight goals in eight Manchester derbies over the following four seasons but he was kept off the scoresheet that day (United didn't need the help; they won 2-1).

In the first derby of the new Millenium in 2001, Roy Keane very nearly ended the career of Alf-Inge Haaland with a vicious tackle. The tackle, which was swiftly red-carded, was revenge for an injury Keane himself sustained at Haaland's expense (kind of. In 1997 Keane was injured when he attempted to tackle Haaland. Only Roy Keane knows why he needed to avenge an injury caused by Roy Keane or why he needed to boast about it in his book. The latter move cost him an additional fine).

Anfield
Interestingly enough, Liverpool were not Anfield's original tenants. That honor goes to Everton, who built the ground in 1884 and called it home for eight years. They left over some internal dispute and Liverpool were formed with the express purpose of occupying Anfield. So Liverpool is very much the house that Anfield build, not vice-versa. I'm sure Everton fans never remind their Liverpool brethren of this.

The (in)famous kop was not part of the original construct either. In fact, no stands were. For the first two years, players had to walk down a road from an off-site locker room to the pitch, according to Liverweb.org.uk. The site also supplies this tidbit from the ground's very early days:

In 1894 following some early success the club decided to build a proper main stand which would incorporate dressing rooms. The stand was built and cost a total of £1,000. The stand was made of timber and remained relatively unmodified until the 1970's when it was to become as it is in modern times. The stand was at the time considered extremely good for the football ground. In the middle of the stand roof was a mock semi-circular gable in red and white. A large plaque was later place on this area reading 'Liverpool Football Club'. Today though the only thing left of it are photographs as the original itself was lost in development of the stand. It is likely to have been placed in a builders skip.

The "kop" stand was built in 1906 and named after the Spion Kop, a hill in South Africa where a local regiment suffered heavy losses during the Boer War. The roof was added in 1928. The kop can rightfully claim to be the most famous soccer stand in the world. It was here that the singing we associate today with football supporters came into being. "While cheering and the occasional singing at English football matches was nothing new, the spontaneous, collective songs of the masses in the Kop was something never before seen," writes Albion Road.

This alone makes Anfield a legend among soccer stadia. Its status as a soccer mecca is cemented by the fact that it also berthed soccer's most famous song. "You'll never walk alone," has since been adopted as the anthem of virtually every club not named Everton and Manchester United. The song has existed since 1945. It started as a Broadway show tune if you can believe that (probably one of very few links between the world of Broadway musicals and soccer--or professional sport for that matter) and was covered by everybody from Frank Sinatra to Elvis Presley. It was first heard at Anfield around 1963 when Merseyside group Gerry & The Pacemakers made it popular in Britain. It appears to have become the club's official anthem shortly afterward (I found a YouTube clip from 1964).

A wave of renovations were spurred by the arrival of Bill Shankly in 1959. "He was livid at the conditions and said that the ground was not good enough for the fans who supported them each week," writes Liverweb.

In 1971, Anfield had the dubious distinction of hosting a Man United match. This Web site explains why. So Anfield has actually held home games for Liverpool's two fiercest rivals!

Still, nobody can argue that the team that gets the most inspiration from Anfield is Liverpool. From 1978 to 1981, Reds did not lose a match at their home ground.

From the mid 1960s to late 1980s the club celebrated a lengthy golden age. In 1973 it hoisted its first European trophy, the UEFA Cup, and won the first division for the "double." The first leg of the UEFA cup final was in fact played at Anfield (back then two legs decided the winner). Reds won 3-0 over Borussia Moenchengladbach with Kevin Keegan scoring two goals within a nine minute span of the first half. In fact, Keegan had a chance for a hat trick but missed a penalty. Liverpool had to hang on for dear life in the return leg; at halftime they were down 2-0. But they pulled it off. '73 was also Shankly's last year in charge at Anfield. Three years later, with Bob Paisley now in charge, Reds won the league and UEFA Cup again.

The first leg of the 1976 UEFA Cup final against Belgian side Bruges was probably one of the best games ever played at Anfield. After just 12 minutes Reds were down two goals. They got three goals in the last 30 minutes of the match (the third on a Keegan penalty) to take the first leg 3-2.

The following season Liverpool took their first champions cup (forerunner to the Champions League). Between 1977 and 1985, they would reach the final five times, winning the first four.

Of course Liverpool also has a few memorable losses at Anfield. The most painful may be the April 1989 league championship decider with Arsenal. Gunners needed to win by two goals on the final matchday. Michael Thomas got Arsenal's second goal in the final minute of the match. Liverpool has not won a league title since.

Like Old Trafford, Anfield also hosted Euro 96 games; three group stage matches and a quarterfinal between France and the Netherlands that ended scoreless (France advanced on penalties). The most interesting of the group stage matches was probably Russia's 3-3 draw with the Czech Republic in the third and final round. With zero points from its first two games, Russia had no hope of advancing, but they could spoil the Czech Republic's quarterfinal qualification with a victory. It didn't start well; after just 19 minutes Russia was down two goals. But they rallied at the start of the second half and by minute 54 had tied the game up. Then, five minutes before time Vladimir Beschastnykh put the Russians up, before the Czechs equalized three minutes later. They would go on to make the finals of the tournament and lose in extra time on a disputed "golden goal" by Oliver Bierhoff.

Man United v Liverpool
The "Northwest derby" between Liverpool and Man United is one of the most spirited affairs in all of sport, so we are devoting an entire section to it. All but a handful of these matches were played at Old Trafford or Anfield. Liverpool drew first blood in their first meeting in 1895; the 7-1 victory at Anfield remains the widest margin of victory in these games.

There have been so many memorable matches since then, it's hard to pick a select few that stand out. But for historical significance's stake, perhaps none is greater than the 1999 FA Cup tie at Old Trafford. Trailing 1-0 with a minute to go, Sir Alex' men stunned the visitors with a pair of goals (links to YouTube video clip) en route to their historic treble. The Champions League final against Bayern Munich is rightly remembered as the crowning moment of the season, but it turns out Red Devils had pulled an identical feat (scoring twice to overcome a 1-0 deficit in the final minute of a match) three months earlier.

The teams' August 1953 meeting at Anfield proved the start of a dark period for Liverpool. The home side led 4-2 at the hour mark but United rallied to tie the score. The equalizer was controversial; Liverpool goalkeeper Charlie Ashcroft was bundled into the net with seven minutes to go and apparently the Anfield faithful were so incensed police had to form a line in front of the kop. An interesting tidbit for those who might think soccer violence (or the threat thereof) is something that began in the 1960s. The Lancashire Evening Post interviewed the 82-year old Ashcroft about this and other memorable games in January 2009. United won the return leg at Old Trafford and Liverpool were relegated. Man U went on to become, well Man U (at least the 1950s version).

When they were finally re-promoted for the 1962-63 season, Liverpool had a rough start, winning just four of their first 16 games when they faced their hated rivals at Old Trafford. It started badly for Bill Shankly's side and at the half the score was Man U 1, Liverpool 0. The teams traded goals in the second half with United getting the last laugh on the final play of the game, equalizing for a 3-3 score. But Liverpool were clearly buoyed by the result; they went on to win their next nine games and were crowned league champions in 1964.

Sir Alex' first season in charge at Old Trafford was largely forgettable, but Red Devils did manage a 1-0 win at Anfield on Boxing Day 1986 that helped put an end to Liverpool's chances of defending their league title.

In 1988, United came from two goals down to draw 3-3 at Anfield in a game made famous for Gordon Strachan smoking an imaginary cigar in front of the kop. Liverpool won the league anyway. But they haven't won it since.

In 1992 it was still United who was suffering the title drought however. Sir Alex' men hit Anfield in April with their title hopes hanging by a thread. They lost 2-0. The last-ever league championship before the creation of the Premier League went to Leeds United (ironically with Strachan). But Man U won the next one. And the one after that. In fact, seven of the first nine Premiership titles went to Man United.

In 1993 Man United suffered a brief setback at the hands of their rivals. Sir Alex' men had a 3-0 lead after just 24 minutes at Anfield, but the match ended up a 3-3 draw. Man U went on to win the double that season.

In 1995 Cantona returned from the suspension he earned for the Selhurst Park incident and had a part in both United goals in an exciting 2-2 draw at Old Trafford.

In December 2000, Liverpool ended a 10-game unbeaten run against their rivals, winning 1-0 on a freekick goal by Danny Murphy at Old Trafford.

As for the last decade worth of games, you should be young enough to remember them yourself and won't need me to relive them.

If you liked last week's shakeout, you're going to love this; four teams have been dropped from the Top 25 altogether, including one that was earlier making pretensions (appropriate choice of word) at a top 10 spot. Chelsea were swiftly punished for their Champions League exit while the fortunes of Inter Milan and others improved vastly. Let's get to it:

1. Barcelona
Last ranking: 1
Record (wins-losses-ties, in all competition; two-leg match-ups count as one): 30-3-7
Results of note: (chronological order) Beat Shakhtar Donetsk (at the time ranked 14th) in the UEFA SuperCup, Aug. 29, drew at then-No. 6 Inter Milan in Champions League group stage (0-0, Sept. 16), beat then-No. 14 Dynamo Kiev at home in Champions League group stage (2-0, Sept. 29), drew at then-No. 18 Valencia (0-0, Oct. 17), lost at home to then-No. 23 Rubin Kazan (2-1, Oct. 20), drew at then-No. 11 Rubin Kazan (0-0, Nov. 4), beat then-No. 2 Inter Milan (2-0, Nov. 24), beat then-No. 7 Real Madrid (1-0, Nov. 29), won at then-No. 15 Dynamo Kiev (2-1, Dec. 9), lost to then-No. 10 Sevilla in Copa del Rey, beat then-No. 10 Sevilla at home (4-0, Jan. 16), beat then-No. 17 Valencia at home (3-0, March 14).
Commentary/recent results: Barca had absolutely no problem with VfB Stuttgart in the return leg of their Champions League match-up, defeating the German side 4-0 to advance to the quarterfinals. Now stop me if you've heard this before. They got a hat trick from Lionel Messi to win their weekend league match. Oh I know! It happened last week. That's' two hat tricks in two games for Messi. Eight goals in his last three games. Sounds like somebody's RBI totals (and even then it would be impressive). The 4-2 defeat of Saragossa allows Barca to keep pace with Real Madrid. The two friendly rivals are even on points atop the Liga BBVA standings.
Upcoming schedule: Host Osasuna Wednesday. Visit Mallorca Saturday. Then it's off to Emirates (not the country) for the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal a week from Wednesday.

2. Manchester United
Last ranking: 3
Record: 31-9-4
Results of note: Beat then No. 4 Arsenal at home (2-1, Aug. 29), beat then-No. 13 Manchester City (4-3, Sept. 20), lost at then-No. 20 Liverpool (2-0, Oct. 25), lost at then-No. 1 Chelsea (1-0, Nov. 8), won at then-No. 5 Arsenal (3-1, Jan. 31), beat then-No. 12 AC Milan in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: Red Devils defeated Liverpool 2-1 yesterday after spotting their rivals a 1-0 lead. It was pretty typical of everything that has happened for both teams this year. In other word, Liverpool were pathetic and Man U fortunate. They maintain a two point edge on Arsenal and four points on Chelsea, who have a game in hand.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Bolton Saturday.

3. Inter Milan
Last ranking: 4
Record: 23-4-12
Results of note: Beat then-No. 10 AC Milan (4-0, Aug. 29), drew then-No. 2 Barcelona at home in Champions League group stage (0-0, Sept. 17), lost at Sampdoria (1-0, Sept. 26), drew then-No. 13 Dynamo Kiev at home (2-2, Oct. 20), beat then-No. 13. Dynamo Kiev on the road (2-1, Nov. 4), lost at then-No. 3 Barcelona (2-0, Nov. 24), lost at then-No. 11 Juventus (2-1, Dec. 5), beat then-No. 9 Rubin Kazan (2-0, Dec. 9), defeated then-No. 6 AC Milan (2-0, Jan. 24), beat then-No. 2 Chelsea in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: The nerazzurri are back in the hunt for the No. 1 season-end crown thanks to their impressive ouster of Chelsea in the Champions League round of 16. Inter managed just a 1-1 draw at Palermo in weekend Serie A action, but they can live with that after the midweek exploit. Especially because AC Milan played Napoli to the same result Sunday. Besides, Palermo are fourth in Serie A, so we can forgive this transgression. Inter maintain their one-point lead atop the Italian table.
Upcoming schedule: Host Livorno Wednesday. Visit AS Roma Sunday in what could be a huge game toward deciding the scudetto. Host CSKA Moscow the following Wednesday in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinals. If they beat the Russian side they'll likely get Barca in the semis.

4. Girondins Bordeaux
Last ranking: 7
Record: 29-7-6
Results of note: A scoreless draw at then-No. 18 Olympique Marseille (Aug. 30), drew at then No. 5 Juventus (1-1, Sept. 15), beat then-No. 16 Bayern Munich at home (2-1, Oct. 21), won at then-No. 19 Bayern Munich (2-0, Nov. 3), beat then-No. 6 Juventus at home (2-0, Nov. 25), won at then-No. 21 Olympique Lyonnais (1-0, Dec. 13), defeated then-No. 18 Olympiakos in the Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: Les Girondins had a huge week, ousting Olympiakos from the Champions League and defeating fourth-placed Lille in weekend Ligue Un action. But there's still a logjam at the top of the French league; Bordeaux and Montpellier (not to be confused with the capital of Vermont which is anyway spelled "Montpelier") are tied on points with Girondins holding the edge on goal difference. Auxerre is a point behind, followed by Olympique Marseille three points behind the leaders. Even Lille and Lyon, tied for fifth, are just five points in arrears.
Upcoming schedule: Their first chance to collect silverware this season with the final of the league cup on Saturday. They'll face Marseille. The Champions League quarterfinal against Lyon kicks off a week from Thursday. The winner will likely get Man United in the semis.

5. Chelsea
Last ranking: 2
Record: 30-7-7
Results of note: Beat then-No. 10 Porto in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 15), beat then-No. 7 Liverpool at home in Premiership (2-0, Oct. 4), beat then-No. 4 Man United at home in Premiership (1-0, Nov. 8), won at then-No. 12 Porto (1-0, Nov. 25), won at then-No. 9 Arsenal (3-0, Nov. 29), beat then-No. 8 Arsenal at home (2-0, Feb. 7), lost to then-No. 4 Inter Milan in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: A week ago Blues were knocking on the door of the top spot in our Top 25, were within a game of first place in the Premiership and had every reason to believe they would advance into the Champions League quarterfinals. Now? Not so much. Their European campaign is over after a 1-0 home loss to Inter in the return leg and this weekend saw a 1-1 draw at Blackburn that does Chelsea no favors in the Premiership title race. They now sit third, four points behind Man United, albeit with a game in hand.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Pompey at midweek. Host Aston Villa Saturday.

6. Arsenal
Last ranking: 6
Record: 28-9-5
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 5 Man United (2-1, Aug. 29), lost at then-No. 16 Man City (4-2, Sept. 12), beat then-No. 15 Olympiakos at home in Champions League group play (2-0, Sept. 29), beat then-No. 20 Liverpool at home in League Cup (2-1, Oct. 28), lost to then-No. 1 Chelsea at home in Premiership (3-0, Nov. 29), beat then-No. 20 Aston Villa at home (3-0, Dec. 27), lost at home to then-No. 8 Manchester United (3-1, Jan. 31), lost at then-No. 2 Chelsea (2-0, Feb. 6), defeated then-No. 13 Porto in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: Gunners defeated West Ham United 2-0 on Saturday to stay within two points of first-placed Man United. If only they had fared better against Chelsea we could actually move them ahead of Blues in the top 25. Maybe later.
Upcoming schedule: Play at Birmingham City Saturday. Host No. 1 Barcelona in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal. Gunners have an easy Premiership schedule the rest of the way; other than a match at White Hart Lane on April 10, only Man City (April 24) and Fulham (May 9) should be potential stumbling blocks. And both those games are home. Would it be crazy to call Arsenal the favorites to win the Premiership at this stage? No. But it wouldn't necessarily be accurate either.

7. Bayern Munich
Last ranking: 5
Record: 24-5-9
Results of note: Beat then-No. 11 VfL Wolfsburg at home (3-0, Aug. 28), lost at then-No. 22 Hamburg SV (1-0, Sept. 26), drew then-No. 5 Juventus at home in Champions League group stage (0-0, Sept. 30), lost at then-No. 17 Girondins Bordeaux (2-1, Oct. 21), lost at home to then-No. 7 Bordeaux (2-0, Nov. 3), tied then-No. 19 Bayer Leverkusen at home (1-1, Nov. 22), won at then-No. 8 Juventus (4-1, Dec. 8).
Commentary/recent results: Bayern lost at Eintracht Frankfurt 2-1 on Saturday. Die Eintracht are quietly having a pretty solid season and sit eighth. But Bayern hold on to first place in the Bundesliga standings because second-placed Schalke played Hamburg to a 2-2 draw.
Upcoming schedule: Speaking of Schalke, they are Bayern's next opponent in the DFB Pokal (German cup) semifinals on Wednesday. Bayern then host Stuttgart Saturday. Their Champions League round of 16 match-up with Man United kicks off Tuesday in Munich.

8. Benfica Lisbon
Last ranking: 9
Record: 26-3-4
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 22 Sporting Braga (2-0, Oct. 31), trounced Everton 5-0 in Europa League (Oct. 22), defeated then-No. 11 Porto at home (1-0, Dec. 20), defeated then-No. 19 Olympique Marseille in the Europa League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: A terrific week for Benfica, who may just take over the mantle of "hottest team in Europe" after defeating Olympique Marseille to advance to the Europa League quarterfinals. They'll face Liverpool but seriously, how hard can that be? There was no domestic action on the agenda last week. The last time Benfica lost a game was Nov. 22.
Upcoming schedule: Host second-placed Sporting Braga Sunday. That may just decide the Portuguese title.

9. Olympique Lyonnais
Last ranking: 8
Record: 23-9-9
Results of note: Beat then-No. 18 Fiorentina at home in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 16), won at then-No. 20 Liverpool (2-1, Oct. 20), lost at home to then-No. 4 Bordeaux (1-0, Dec. 13), beat then-No. 4 Real Madrid in Champions League round of 16, lost at then-No. 19 Olympique Marseille (2-1, March 21)
Commentary/recent results: A week after their shocking ouster of Real Madrid from the Champions League, Lyon suffered the inevitable letdown, losing at Marseille to drop to fifth in Ligue Un, though still just five points behind the leaders.
Upcoming schedule: Host Grenoble Foot Friday. The Champs League quarterfinal with Bordeaux kicks off a week from Thursday. Lyon will host that.

10. Real Madrid
Last ranking: 10
Record: 25-6-4
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 9 Sevilla (2-1, Oct. 4). drew at then-No. 17 AC Milan (1-1, Nov. 3), lost at then-No. 3 Barcelona (1-0, Nov. 29), won at then-No. 12 Valencia (3-2, Dec. 12), beat then-No. 9 Sevilla at home (3-2, March 7) lost to then-No. 11 Olympique Lyon in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: Real spotted Sporting Gijon a goal at the Bernabeu on Saturday, then scored three of their own. The result keeps the merengues first in La Liga, albeit on goal difference.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Getafe Thursday, followed by the Madrid derby on Sunday.

11. AC Milan
Last ranking: 13
Record: 20-8-11
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 8 Inter Milan (4-0, Aug. 27), won at then-No. 16 Olympique Marseille (2-1, Sept. 15), won at then-No. 2 Real Madrid (3-2, Oct. 21), drew then-No. 5 Real Madrid at home (1-1, Nov. 3), drew against then-No. 22 Olympique Marseille (1-1, Nov. 25), lost at then-No. 4 Inter Milan (2-0, Jan. 24), drew at then-No. 15 AS Roma (0-0, March 6).
Commentary/recent results: The rossoneri blew their chance to take over first place in the Serie A. After cross-town rivals Inter managed just a 1-1 draw at Palermo a victory at home vs. Napoli would have done the trick for Leonardo's men. Alas, they managed just a 1-1 draw of their own, and remain second in Serie A, a solitary point behind Inter.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Parma at midweek and host Lazio on the weekend.

12. Valencia
Last ranking: 22
Record: 21-7-10
Results of note: Defeated then-No. 9 Sevilla at home (2-0, Aug. 30), drew then-No. 1 Barcelona at home (0-0, Oct. 17), lost at home to then-No. 7 Real Madrid (3-2, Dec. 12), lost at then-No. 11 Sevilla (2-1, Jan. 31), lost at then-No. 1 Barcelona (3-0, March 14).
Commentary/recent results: Los xotos had a massive week, vindicating our decision to keep them in the top 25 last week. First they played a 4-4 match at Werder Bremen, which sees them through to the Europa League quarterfinal (they'll face Atletico Madrid). Then they dropped Almeira 2-0 to strengthen their hold on third place in La Liga, which would be good enough to qualify for the Champions League next season. Valencia have a four point edge on Mallorca.
Upcoming schedule: Host Malaga at midweek and visit Saragossa on the weekend. The first leg against Atletico is a week from Thursday. Valencia host that one.

13. Olympiakos
Last ranking: 18
Record: 20-8-7
Results of note: Beat then-No. 17 AZ Alkmaar at home in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 16), lost at then-No. 12 Arsenal in Champions League group stage (2-0, Sept. 29), lost at then-No. 7 Girondins Bordeaux in Champions League round of 16, beat then-No. 15 Panathinaikos in Greek league match (1-0, March 21).
Commentary/recent results: A comeback against Girondins Bordeaux was not to be but Olympiakos defeated Panathinaikos yesterday to close within four points of the leaders with three matchdays remaining. the win keeps their hopes of a repeat alive. If nothing else, it's bound to be interesting.
Upcoming schedule: Host AO Xanthi on Sunday.

14. Panathinaikos
Last ranking: 15
Record: 28-8-3
Results of note: Lost Champions League qualifier with then-No. 17 Atletico Madrid (5-2 on aggregate), lost at home to then-No. 18 Galatasaray in Europa League group play (1-0, Sept. 17), lost at then-No. 19 Olympiakos (2-0, Nov. 29), beat then-No. 9 AS Roma in Europa League round of 32, lost at home to then-No. 18 Olympiakos (1-0, March 21).
Commentary/recent results: A bad, bad week for Panathinaikos, who exited the Europa League at the hands of Standard Liege, who aren't even good in the Belgian league. Then lost at home to Olympiakos to keep things interesting in the Greek Super League.
Upcoming schedule: Host PAS Ioannina in first leg of Greek cup semifinal on Wednesday. Visit Atromitos Halkidona on Sunday.

15. AS Roma
Last ranking: 16
Record: 23-7-9
Results of note: Lost at home to then-No. 5 Juventus (3-1, Aug. 30), beat then-No. 18 Fiorentina (3-1, Sept. 20), drew at then-No. 2 Inter Milan (1-1, Nov. 8), drew then-No. 12 AC Milan at home (0-0, March 6).
Commentary/recent results: Roma defeated Udinese 4-2. They make up ground on the leaders from Milan, moving within three points of AC Milan and four of Inter.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Bologna at midweek. Host Inter Milan Sunday. Will they have a chance to go first?

16. Porto
Last ranking: 14
Record: 22-7-4
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 3 Chelsea in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 15), lost at home to then-No. 1 Chelsea (1-0, Nov. 25), lost at then-No. 18 Benfica (1-0, Dec. 20), lost against then-No. 8 Arsenal in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: Idle
Upcoming schedule: The first leg of their Portuguese cup semifinal matchup against Rio Ave Vila do Conde. Don't ask me how these Portuguese clubs got their names. Also visit Belenenses Sunday.

17. Rubin Kazan
Last Ranking: 12
Record: 23-7-8
Results of note: In Champions League group stage lost at then-No. 20 Dynamo Kiev (3-1, Sept. 16), drew then-No. 6 Inter Milan at home (1-1, Oct. 6), won at then-No. 1 Barcelona (2-1, Oct. 20), drew then-No. 3 Barcelona at home (0-0, Nov. 3), drew then-No. 13 Dynamo Kiev at home (0-0, Nov. 24), lost at then-No. 5 Inter Milan (2-0, Dec 9).
Commentary/recent results: The Russian champs bowed out of European competition in an extra time loss to VfL Wolfsburg.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Tom Tom tomorrow. Host Terek Grozny Sunday. I guess there is more than one place in that part of the world named Grozny, because surely they can't be talking about the Chechen capital, right?

18. CSKA Moscow
Last Ranking: -
Record: 2-1-1*
Results of note: Lost at home to then-No. 3 Man United (1-0, Oct. 21), drew then-No. 6 Man U away (3-3, Nov. 3), lost to then No. 14 Rubin Kazan in Russian supercup (1-0, March 7) defeated then-No. 11 Sevilla in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: The Russian side are clearly the biggest surprise of the second half of the European season so far, though a 3-3 result at Old Trafford (see above) should have given us reason to suspect this. As things stand it appears we had inflated Sevilla's position. But no matter, we'll see what happens in the quarterfinal against Inter. For now CSKA can enjoy their perch.
Upcoming schedule: Some Russian club, Sunday.
*Since Jan. 1, 2010

19. Olympique Marseille
Last ranking: 19
Record: 23-10-9
Results of note: Drew then-No. 12 Girondins Bordeaux at home (0-0, Aug. 30), lost at home to AC Milan (2-1, Sept. 15), lost at then-No. 1 Real Madrid (3-0, Sept. 30), drew at then-No. 12 Olympique Lyon (5-5, Nov. 8), drew at then-No. 13 AC Milan (1-1, Nov. 25), lost at then-No. 7 Real Madrid (3-1, Dec. 8), drew at then-No. 2 Bordeaux (1-1, Jan. 17), lost to then-No. 9 Benfica Lisbon in Europa League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: L'OM got one good and one bad result last week. First the bad: Their European season is no more after a 2-1 home loss to Benfica Lisbon in the Europa League round of 16. Now the good: Marseille defeated Lyon by 2-1 to move right into the thick of the Ligue Un title race. The team from the Velodrome are third, just three points behind the leaders Montpellier and Bordeaux.
Upcoming schedule: Speaking of Bordeaux, they face les Girondins in the French league cup final on Saturday.

20. Schalke 04
Last ranking: -
Record: 20-4-7
Results of note: Drew then-No. 16 Hamburg SV at home (3-3, Oct. 25), drew at then-No. 24 Bayern Munich (1-1, Nov. 7)
Commentary/recent results: Schalke have been kept out of the Top 25 all season due to their lack of European action. Still, their record speaks for itself. So does second place in the Bundesliga and a spot in the cup semifinals. Last week they had a late 2-1 lead at Hamburg but took a late equalizer.
Upcoming schedule: Speaking of the German cup, Schalke host Bayern Munich in the semis on Saturday. Also visit Leverkusen Saturday. The league could be decided the ensuing weekend when Bayern pay a visit again.

21. Bayer Leverkusen
Last ranking: 17
Record: 14-3-11
Results of note: Won at then-No. 15 VfL Wolfsburg (3-2, Sept. 12), drew at then-No. 14 Hamburg SV (0-0, Oct. 17), drew at then-No. 24 Bayern Munich (1-1, Nov. 22).
Commentary/recent results: Bayer were defeated 3-0 at Borussia Dortmund. Their second Bundesliga loss in a row after previously not suffering one all season (that other loss was in a cup tie). Leverkusen sit third in the German first division, just three points behind leaders Bayern Munich and two behind Schalke 04.
Upcoming schedule: Host Schalke Saturday. A clash with Bayern Munich looms April 10, though it may not matter by then if this keeps up.

22. Sao Paulo
Last ranking: -
Record: 13-3-3*
Results of note: Defeated Monterrey at home in Copa Libertadores group stage (2-0, Feb. 11)
Commentary/recent results: Sao Paulo are off to a flying start in the Libertadores, where they have all but qualified for the elimination round with nine points from their first four games. In the Paulista league they are third with three matchdays remaining before the playoffs.
Upcoming schedule: More Paulista action before their Paril 1 clash at Monterrey.
*results since Jan. 1, 2010

23. Dynamo Kiev
Last ranking: 20
Record: 17-4-5
Results of note: Won home match against then-No. 22 Rubin Kazan in Champions League group stage (3-1, Sept. 16), lost at then-No. 2 Barcelona in Champions League group stage, drew at then-No. 4 Inter Milan (2-2, Oct. 20), lost at then-No. 22 Shakhtar Donetsk in domestic cup (2-0, Oct. 28), lost at home to then-No. 2 Inter Milan (2-1, Nov. 4), defeated then-No. 14 Shakhtar Donetsk (3-0, Nov. 21), drew at then-No. 8 Rubin Kazan (0-0, Nov. 24), lost at home to then-No. 1 Barcelona (2-1, Dec. 9).
Commentary/recent results: Dynamo drew Metalurg Donetsk 1-1, which cost them first place in the Ukrainian standings (to Shakhtar Donetsk).
Upcoming schedule: It's just domestic action the rest of the way, so Dynamo will have to play their cards right to keep their spot in the Top 25. Their next match against Shakhtar isn't until May 5, the penultimate match day.

24. Monterrey
Last ranking: -
Record: 11-2-6*
Results of note: Beat Club America in Interliga (Copa Libertadores qualification) tourney on penalty kicks (Jan. 14), defeated then-No. 25 Chivas at home (2-1, March 20)
Commentary/recent results: The rayados won the battle between the top two Mexican clubs. Earlier in the week they drew Once Caldas at home in Copa Libertadores action. Monterrey sit third in their Libertadores group, three points behind Caldas and four behind leaders Sao Paulo. Monterrey's only loss came at Sao Paulo.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Jaguares, Saturday. Host Sao Paulo April 1, a match they'll need to win if they want to have any hope of advancing to the elimination round.
*results since Jan. 1, 2010

25. Flamengo
Last ranking: 24
Record: 12-2-1*
Results of note: Lost at home to Botafogo in the Taca Guanabara semifinals (2-1, Feb. 17).
Commentary/recent results: Flamengo dropped a 2-1 decision at Universidad de Chile in the third Copa Libertadores matchday. They drop to second in the group (behind Universidad) as a result. They then drew at Botafogo 2-2 in the second matchday of the Taca Rio.
Upcoming schedule: Host Tigres Brasil Thursday. What is it with "Tigres" is every single Latin American country required to have at least one club of that name? Also host America RJ (see Tigres) on Sunday. The next Libertadores action isn't until April 8, when they have a chance to avenge the loss to Universidad at home.
*results since Jan. 1, 2010

Dropping Out:
Sevilla (11) after losing to CSKA Moscow in the Champions League round of 16 and at Espanyol to drop to fifth in La Liga.
Lille (21) after losing to Liverpool in the Europa League round of 16 and to Girondins Bordeaux to drop to fifth in Ligue Un.
RSC Anderlecht (23) after losing to Hamburg SV in the Europa League round of 16.
Chivas de Guadelajara (25) after losing at Monterrey.

Also receiving consideration (in rough order of consideration received):
Tottenham Hotspur

Photo taken from ESPNstar.com piece without permission.

Welcome back! This week comes our first big shakeup of the season, as two clubs from the top half of our table were eliminated from European competition. One of these teams had very real pretensions of making a run at the final season top spot. Or so they thought. They were exposed as mere pretenders at the hands of a French club that wasn't even in the top three in its own league. But last week may have just been the first of a larger shakeup. The next few days will see four more clubs eliminated from the Champions League tourney. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. Here is where things stand right now:

1. Barcelona
Last ranking: 1
Record (wins-losses-ties, in all competition; two-leg match-ups count as one): 28-3-7
Results of note: (chronological order) Beat Shakhtar Donetsk (at the time ranked 14th) in the UEFA SuperCup, Aug. 29, drew at then-No. 6 Inter Milan in Champions League group stage (0-0, Sept. 16), beat then-No. 14 Dynamo Kiev at home in Champions League group stage (2-0, Sept. 29), drew at then-No. 18 Valencia (0-0, Oct. 17), lost at home to then-No. 23 Rubin Kazan (2-1, Oct. 20), drew at then-No. 11 Rubin Kazan (0-0, Nov. 4), beat then-No. 2 Inter Milan (2-0, Nov. 24), beat then-No. 7 Real Madrid (1-0, Nov. 29), won at then-No. 15 Dynamo Kiev (2-1, Dec. 9), lost to then-No. 10 Sevilla in Copa del Rey, beat then-No. 10 Sevilla at home (4-0, Jan. 16), beat then-No. 17 Valencia at home (3-0, March 14).
Commentary/recent results: Barca stumbled to a 2-2 draw at Almeira a fortnight ago but rebounded with a 3-0 thrashing of Valencia (hat trick by Lionel Messi) to keep pace with Real Madrid. The two friendly rivals are even on points atop the Liga BBVA standings.
Upcoming schedule: The return leg with Stuttgart is Wednesday. The 1-1 result from the first leg was disappointing but Barca can theoretically advance with a scoreless draw at the Camp Nou on Wednesday. Not that they'll want to play for one. Also visit Saragossa Sunday.

2. Chelsea
Last ranking: 3
Record: 30-6-6
Results of note: Beat then-No. 10 Porto in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 15), beat then-No. 7 Liverpool at home in Premiership (2-0, Oct. 4), beat then-No. 4 Man United at home in Premiership (1-0, Nov. 8), won at then-No. 12 Porto (1-0, Nov. 25), won at then-No. 9 Arsenal (3-0, Nov. 29), beat then-No. 8 Arsenal at home (2-0, Feb. 7).
Commentary/recent results: Two games, two wins for Blues since the last edition of the Top 25. Not that the opponents (Stoke City and West Ham) are going to scare many teams. But the game we're all waiting, and which will likely determine Chelsea's fate, at least for the medium term, is tomorrow...
Upcoming schedule: Host Inter Milan in the return leg of their Champions League round of 16 match-up. Blues got an impressive 2-1 win in the first leg, meaning they can even lose 1-0 and still advance. Visit Blackburn Sunday.

3. Manchester United
Last ranking: 5
Record: 30-9-4
Results of note: Beat then No. 4 Arsenal at home (2-1, Aug. 29), beat then-No. 13 Manchester City (4-3, Sept. 20), lost at then-No. 20 Liverpool (2-0, Oct. 25), lost at then-No. 1 Chelsea (1-0, Nov. 8), won at then-No. 5 Arsenal (3-1, Jan. 31), beat then-No. 12 AC Milan in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: Since the last edition of the Top 25, Red Devils have won three games by a combined score of 8-0. Granted the 4-0 result against AC Milan may not have been a true indication of Man U's superiority given that the Italian club had to throw everything forward after a point. Still, Sir Alex' men may just be peaking at the right time. They have a two point lead over Chelsea in the Premiership, albeit with an additional game played. That, combined with the fact that Blues beat them on the field in November, leaves Man U behind the West London side. For now...
Upcoming schedule: Host Liverpool Sunday.

4. Inter Milan
Last ranking: 2
Record: 22-4-11
Results of note: Beat then-No. 10 AC Milan (4-0, Aug. 29), drew then-No. 2 Barcelona at home in Champions League group stage (0-0, Sept. 17), lost at Sampdoria (1-0, Sept. 26), drew then-No. 13 Dynamo Kiev at home (2-2, Oct. 20), beat then-No. 13. Dynamo Kiev on the road (2-1, Nov. 4), lost at then-No. 3 Barcelona (2-0, Nov. 24), lost at then-No. 11 Juventus (2-1, Dec. 5), beat then-No. 9 Rubin Kazan (2-0, Dec. 9), defeated then-No. 6 AC Milan (2-0, Jan. 24).
Commentary/recent results: The nerazzurri are sputtering. First the scoreless home draw against Genoa eight days ago, then Friday's 3-1 embarrassment at Catania. Put it all together and you have a team hanging on to first place in Serie A by the skin of their teeth (a solitary point over AC Milan)
Upcoming schedule: The return leg at Stamford Bridge is tomorrow. Win by enough to advance and all is forgiven. But that's a tough task.

5. Bayern Munich
Last ranking: 7
Record: 24-4-9
Results of note: Beat then-No. 11 VfL Wolfsburg at home (3-0, Aug. 28), lost at then-No. 22 Hamburg SV (1-0, Sept. 26), drew then-No. 5 Juventus at home in Champions League group stage (0-0, Sept. 30), lost at then-No. 17 Girondins Bordeaux (2-1, Oct. 21), lost at home to then-No. 7 Bordeaux (2-0, Nov. 3), tied then-No. 19 Bayer Leverkusen at home (1-1, Nov. 22), won at then-No. 8 Juventus (4-1, Dec. 8).
Commentary/recent results: Louis van Gaal's club were able to protect their two point lead atop the Bundesliga table and advanced into the quarterfinals of the Champions League after a topsy-turvy game at Fiorentina.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Frankfurt Saturday.

6. Arsenal
Last ranking: 8
Record: 27-9-5
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 5 Man United (2-1, Aug. 29), lost at then-No. 16 Man City (4-2, Sept. 12), beat then-No. 15 Olympiakos at home in Champions League group play (2-0, Sept. 29), beat then-No. 20 Liverpool at home in League Cup (2-1, Oct. 28), lost to then-No. 1 Chelsea at home in Premiership (3-0, Nov. 29), beat then-No. 20 Aston Villa at home (3-0, Dec. 27), lost at home to then-No. 8 Manchester United (3-1, Jan. 31), lost at then-No. 2 Chelsea (2-0, Feb. 6), defeated then-No. 13 Porto in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: Gunners are looking more and more like real, honest-to-goodness title contenders. Despite missing arguably their best player they had little problem dismantling Porto in the return leg of their Champions League match-up. Saturday they got a last minute goal from Nicklas Bendtner to defeat Hull City.
Upcoming schedule: Host West Ham Saturday. Gunners have an easy Premiership schedule the rest of the way; other than a match at White Hart Lane on April 10, only Man City (April 24) and Fulham (May 9) should be potential stumbling blocks. And both those games are home. Would it be crazy to call Arsenal the favorites to win the Premiership at this stage? No. But it wouldn't necessarily be accurate either.

7. Girondins Bordeaux
Last ranking: 6
Record: 27-7-6
Results of note: A scoreless draw at then-No. 18 Olympique Marseille (Aug. 30), drew at then No. 5 Juventus (1-1, Sept. 15), beat then-No. 16 Bayern Munich at home (2-1, Oct. 21), won at then-No. 19 Bayern Munich (2-0, Nov. 3), beat then-No. 6 Juventus at home (2-0, Nov. 25), won at then-No. 21 Olympique Lyonnais (1-0, Dec. 13).
Commentary/recent results: Les Girondins are in a bit of a slump, with two draws and a loss since we last met. Still, they remain first in Ligue Un, albeit equal on points with Montpellier (the surprising promoted club whom they drew 1-1 on March 7) but with a game in hand. That, along with their advantageous spot in their Champions League match-up with Olympiakos (they take a 1-0 lead into the home leg) allow Bordeaux to maintain a top 10 spot in our rankings.
Upcoming schedule: The aforementioned return leg with Olympiakos is Wednesday. Fourth-placed Lille pay a visit Sunday. A big week, in other words.

8. Olympique Lyonnais
Last ranking: 11
Record: 23-8-9
Results of note: Beat then-No. 18 Fiorentina at home in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 16), won at then-No. 20 Liverpool (2-1, Oct. 20), lost at home to then-No. 4 Bordeaux (1-0, Dec. 13), beat then-No. 4 Real Madrid in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: There are two reasons l'OL didn't move up higher. First, they have struggled in Ligue Un recently, with two draws in their last matches. That leaves Lyon fifth in the French league. Second, the team they dropped from the Champions League may not be very good (sure they have great players; but are they a great team?) It is looking like this might just be a weird off year for the Spanish league.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Marseille Sunday.

9. Benfica Lisbon
Last ranking: 10
Record: 24-3-4
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 22 Sporting Braga (2-0, Oct. 31), trounced Everton 5-0 in Europa League (Oct. 22), defeated then-No. 11 Porto at home (1-0, Dec. 20).
Commentary/recent results: The good news is Benfica are looking like the team to beat in Portugal's Liga Sagres. After four straight wins in the league they have clawed out a three-point lead. The bad news is they may very well exit from European competition after a disappointing 1-1 draw at home to Olympique Marseille. But we don't factor those match-ups into the standings until both legs are completed. So for now, Benfica are a top 10 team.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Marseille's Velodrome for the return leg in their Europa League match-up. Host second-placed Sporting Braga Sunday. That may just decide the Portuguese title.

10. Real Madrid
Last ranking: 4
Record: 24-6-4
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 9 Sevilla (2-1, Oct. 4). drew at then-No. 17 AC Milan (1-1, Nov. 3), lost at then-No. 3 Barcelona (1-0, Nov. 29), won at then-No. 12 Valencia (3-2, Dec. 12), beat then-No. 9 Sevilla at home (3-2, March 7) lost to then-No. 11 Olympique Lyon in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: It's all over for Real. Things started so well last week too. First they came from two goals down to defeat Sevilla and then they got an early goal in the return leg with Lyon. But it was not to be. We discussed this matter at length last week; no need to return to it now. Suffice it to say Real will probably only see the top five again if they win the Spanish league.
Upcoming schedule: Host Sporting Gijon Saturday. Look for the April 11 match with Barca to settle the Spanish liga.

11. Sevilla
Last ranking: 9
Record: 21-6-5
Results of note: Beat then No. 21 Unirea Urziceni in Champions League group stage at home (2-0, Sept. 16), won at then-No. 24 Glasgow Rangers in Champions League group stage (4-1, Sept. 30), defeated then-No. 1 Real Madrid at home (2-1, Oct. 4), beat then-No. 1 Barcelona in Copa del Rey, lost at then-No. 1 Barcelona (4-0, Jan. 16), beat then-No. 13 Valencia at home (2-1, Jan. 31), lost at then-No. 4 Real Madrid (3-2, March 7).
Commentary/recent results: Don't look now but los palanganas have not won a match since Feb. 20. After the meltdown at the Bernabeu they struggled to a 1-1 draw against Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday. That leaves Sevilla fourth, only one point ahead of fifth-placed Mallorca.
Upcoming schedule: Host CSKA Moscow tomorrow for a chance to move into the Champions League quarterfinals. A scoreless draw will see them through. Also visit Espanyol Barcelona, Sunday.

12. Rubin Kazan
Last Ranking: 14
Record: 23-6-8
Results of note: In Champions League group stage lost at then-No. 20 Dynamo Kiev (3-1, Sept. 16), drew then-No. 6 Inter Milan at home (1-1, Oct. 6), won at then-No. 1 Barcelona (2-1, Oct. 20), drew then-No. 3 Barcelona at home (0-0, Nov. 3), drew then-No. 13 Dynamo Kiev at home (0-0, Nov. 24), lost at then-No. 5 Inter Milan (2-0, Dec 9).
Commentary/recent results: The Russian champs have won both domestic games they've played in that country's young season, but face a tough task in the Europa League. They played VfL Wolfsburg to a disappointing 1-1 home draw in the first leg of their round of 16 matchup.
Upcoming schedule: The return leg at Wolfsburg is what we're all watching. Win (or draw by two goals or more) and they keep their lofty perch in the top 25. Lose and...

13. AC Milan
Last ranking: 12
Record: 20-8-10
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 8 Inter Milan (4-0, Aug. 27), won at then-No. 16 Olympique Marseille (2-1, Sept. 15), won at then-No. 2 Real Madrid (3-2, Oct. 21), drew then-No. 5 Real Madrid at home (1-1, Nov. 3), drew against then-No. 22 Olympique Marseille (1-1, Nov. 25), lost at then-No. 4 Inter Milan (2-0, Jan. 24), drew at then-No. 15 AS Roma (0-0, March 6).
Commentary/recent results: It's been an interesting fortnight for the rossoneri. First you had the utter bore of a scoreless draw at Roma on March 6, then the beatdown at Old Trafford, followed by a spirited victory over Chievo Verona that puts Leonardo's side within one point of leaders Inter. What gives? Who knows, but the Man United match made clear this is not a top five club. Probably not a top 10 either.
Upcoming schedule: Host Napoli Sunday.

14. Porto
Last ranking: 13
Record: 22-7-4
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 3 Chelsea in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 15), lost at home to then-No. 1 Chelsea (1-0, Nov. 25), lost at then-No. 18 Benfica (1-0, Dec. 20), lost against then-No. 8 Arsenal in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: The Dragoes were unable to maintain their slim lead over Arsenal but rebounded to defeat Academica de Coimbra in a Liga Sagres match yesterday. It may be too late to make a move there; Porto sit a distant third, 11 points behind leaders Benfica with just seven matchdays remaining.
Upcoming schedule: The first leg of their Portuguese cup semifinal matchup against Rio Ave Vila do Conde. Don't ask me how these Portuguese clubs got their names. Also visit Belenenses Sunday.

15. Panathinaikos
Last ranking: 23
Record: 28-6-3
Results of note: Lost Champions League qualifier with then-No. 17 Atletico Madrid (5-2 on aggregate), lost at home to then-No. 18 Galatasaray in Europa League group play (1-0, Sept. 17), lost at then-No. 19 Olympiakos (2-0, Nov. 29), beat then-No. 9 AS Roma in Europa League round of 32 (6-4 on aggregate).
Commentary/recent results: Panathinaikos continued their winning ways to establish a five point lead atop the Greek Super League standings. Unfortunately there was also the little matter of a 3-1 home defeat to Standard Liege in the first leg of their Europa League match-up. But until both legs are played we don't factor this into our rankings.
Upcoming schedule: The return leg at Liege goes down Thursday. If that wasn't tough enough they also face Olympiakos on Sunday.

16. AS Roma
Last ranking: 15
Record: 22-7-9
Results of note: Lost at home to then-No. 5 Juventus (3-1, Aug. 30), beat then-No. 18 Fiorentina (3-1, Sept. 20), drew at then-No. 2 Inter Milan (1-1, Nov. 8), drew then-No. 12 AC Milan at home (0-0, March 6).
Commentary/recent results: The good news is Roma's unbeaten streak in Serie A continues. They last lost against an Italian club on Oct. 28, if you can believe that. The bad news is they are starting to draw too many matches they should be winning. Case in point: yesterday's 3-3 at Livorno. Roma had a golden opportunity to make up ground on the leaders from Milan. Instead they sit six points behind Inter and five behind AC. But their Champions League spot looks secure, with seven points separating them from fourth-placed Palermo.
Upcoming schedule: Host Udinese (the last Italian team that defeated them) Sunday.

17. Bayer Leverkusen
Last ranking: 16
Record: 14-2-11
Results of note: Won at then-No. 15 VfL Wolfsburg (3-2, Sept. 12), drew at then-No. 14 Hamburg SV (0-0, Oct. 17), drew at then-No. 24 Bayern Munich (1-1, Nov. 22).
Commentary/recent results: It took a little while, but Leverkusen finally lost their first Bundesliga match of the season at Nurnberg on March 7. But they rebounded to defeat fellow title aspirants Hamburg SV by 4-2 yesterday. Still, Bayer are now third, one point behind Schalke 04 and three behind leaders Bayern Munich.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Borussia Dortmund Saturday. A clash with Bayern Munich looms April 10.

18. Olympiakos
Last ranking: 18
Record: 19-7-7
Results of note: Beat then-No. 17 AZ Alkmaar at home in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 16), lost at then-No. 12 Arsenal in Champions League group stage (2-0, Sept. 29).
Commentary/recent results: It's been a tough fortnight for Olympiakos, who lost one and drew one in Greek league play
Upcoming schedule: The Champions League return leg at Bordeaux is Wednesday. Do Olympiakos have a chance? They play these games for a reason so we'll have to wait and see. Also visit Panathinaikos Sunday for their last, best chance at catching the Athens side, whom they trail by seven points at the time of this writing.

19. Olympique Marseille
Last ranking: 20
Record: 22-9-9
Results of note: Drew then-No. 12 Girondins Bordeaux at home (0-0, Aug. 30), lost at home to AC Milan (2-1, Sept. 15), lost at then-No. 1 Real Madrid (3-0, Sept. 30), drew at then-No. 12 Olympique Lyon (5-5, Nov. 8), drew at then-No. 13 AC Milan (1-1, Nov. 25), lost at then-No. 7 Real Madrid (3-1, Dec. 8), drew at then-No. 2 Bordeaux (1-1, Jan. 17).
Commentary/recent results: Three straight draws for l'OM. Of course one of these, at Benfica Lisbon leaves them in a good position to advance in the Europa League. They may sit sixth in Ligue Un, but that's just three points behind the leaders.
Upcoming schedule: Host the return leg with Benfica Thursday. Then host Olympique Lyon. Yikes.

20. Dynamo Kiev
Last ranking: 19
Record: 17-4-4
Results of note: Won home match against then-No. 22 Rubin Kazan in Champions League group stage (3-1, Sept. 16), lost at then-No. 2 Barcelona in Champions League group stage, drew at then-No. 4 Inter Milan (2-2, Oct. 20), lost at then-No. 22 Shakhtar Donetsk in domestic cup (2-0, Oct. 28), lost at home to then-No. 2 Inter Milan (2-1, Nov. 4), defeated then-No. 14 Shakhtar Donetsk (3-0, Nov. 21), drew at then-No. 8 Rubin Kazan (0-0, Nov. 24), lost at home to then-No. 1 Barcelona (2-1, Dec. 9).
Commentary/recent results: Dynamo drew one and won one in Ukrainian league action. Thanks to the first result, they are now even on points with Shakhtar Donetsk.
Upcoming schedule: It's just domestic action the rest of the way, so Dynamo will have to play their cards right to keep their spot in the Top 25. Their next match against Shakhtar isn't until May 5, the penultimate match day.

21.OSC Lille
Last ranking: 22
Record: 20-11-7
Results of note: Beat then-No. 7 Girondins Bordeaux at home (2-0, Nov. 8), lost at then-No. 14 Valencia (3-1, Dec. 2), beat then-No. 18 Olympique Lyon (4-3, Dec. 6), lost at then-No. 23 Olympique Marseille in cup tie (2-1, Jan. 27), beat then-No. 21 Fenerbahce Istanbul in Europa League (3-2 on aggregate).
Commentary/recent results: L'OSC surprised everybody but us with their 1-0 home leg victory over Liverpool, which puts them in a good position to advance to the next round of the Europa League. In France they sit fourth but just two points behind the leaders.
Upcoming schedule: The aforementioned return match at Anfield is on Thursday. Visit Bordeaux Sunday with a chance to move into first place in Ligue Un. It could be a massive week for Lille.

22. Valencia
Last ranking: 17
Record: 19-7-10
Results of note: Defeated then-No. 9 Sevilla at home (2-0, Aug. 30), drew then-No. 1 Barcelona at home (0-0, Oct. 17), lost at home to then-No. 7 Real Madrid (3-2, Dec. 12), lost at then-No. 11 Sevilla (2-1, Jan. 31), lost at then-No. 1 Barcelona (3-0, March 14).
Commentary/recent results: Los xotos have come undone a bit. Losing at Barcelona is no crime in itself, but we were hoping for them to keep it a bit closer than 3-0. More importantly there was the little matter of a 1-1 home draw with Werder Bremen in the first leg of their Europa League match-up...
Upcoming schedule: Visit Bremen Thursday needing a win or a draw of 2-2 or higher to advance. If they blow it they're out of the top 25, obviously. They almost got pulled this week, in fact.

23. RSC Anderlecht
Last ranking: 21
Record: 28-7-5
Results of note: Lost Champions League qualifier against Olympique Lyon, drew Ajax Amsterdam at home in Europa League group stage (1-1, Oct. 1).
Commentary/recent results: Anderlecht wrapped up the Jupiler League with a pair of 2-0 wins over the last fortnight. There was unfortunately also the little matter of the first leg of their Europa League match-up with Hamburg SV. The Belgian side lost the first leg in Hamburg by 3-1.
Upcoming schedule: The return leg against HSV is Thursday. That's all we're really concerned with at this point.

24. Flamengo
Last ranking: -
Record: 12-1-1*
Results of note: Lost at home to Botafogo in the Taca Guanabara semifinals (2-1, Feb. 17).
Commentary/recent results: After an undefeated Taca Guanabara campaign, Flamengo were upset in the semifinals by Botafogo, who went on to win the final as well. They have since gone on to a perfect start in the Taca Rio and more importantly the Copa Libertadores, where they just notched a 3-1 victory at Caracas FC on Thursday. They previously defeated Chile's Universidad Catolica in the first matchday.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Universidad de Chile in the next Libertadores matchday. Then have a chance to avenge the loss to Botafogo on Sunday.
*results since Jan. 1, 2010

25. Chivas de Guadelajara
Last ranking: -
Record: 8-1-1*
Results of note:
Commentary/recent results: Though Chivas dropped their first points of the Mexican Clausura campaign over the last fortnight, I feel they still qualify as the 25th-best club in the world right now. But we'll see how things go from here.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Copa Libertadores participant Monterrey Sunday. Speaking of the Libertadores, Chivas will join the next round of that competition.
*results since Jan. 1, 2010

Dropping Out:
PSV Eindhoven (24), after losing 4-1 to Ajax Amsterdam and dropping five points off the pace in the Dutch Eredivisie, Liverpool (25) after, well, do you really need to hear the reasons?

Also receiving consideration (in rough order of consideration received):
Werder Bremen

Photo taken from ESPN Soccernet without permission.