Mighty Barcelona presents the biggest challenge yet for Manchester City in the Women’s Champions League Gareth Taylor’s squad is eager to measure themselves against the elite as they make their debut in the Champions League group stages. On Wednesday evening, Manchester City faces a formidable opponent in Barcelona, a match that is undoubtedly one of the toughest tests in women’s football. When asked if Barcelona is the “best team in the world,” both head coach Gareth Taylor and captain Alex Greenwood responded without hesitation: “yes.” Their confidence is well-founded; Barcelona are the reigning European champions. Having clinched the Women’s Champions League title for the past two consecutive years, Barcelona boasts a roster that includes the last two Ballon d’Or winners. The team is currently dominating their domestic league, averaging an impressive five goals per game. As they prepare to visit a sold-out Joie Stadium, this match will serve as a critical evaluation of Manchester City’s progress over the past three and a half years since their last encounter with the Spanish giants.