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The idea of watching the European Champions this weekend is mouth-watering. After the master class that they gave Manchester United in Rome, I'm looking to see how they build on that. With news that the Ibrahimovic/Samuel Eto'o deal is close to completion, things could actually get better at Camp Nou. Messi, Henry, Iniesta, Xavi...the list goes on...and on...and on...

Spurs have been a bit quite in this transfer window but after the way they finished last season, I think continuing the Harry Redknapp way is a work in process. I'm interested to see if David Bentley makes an appearance after Redknapp's call that he may look to sell him. If that is the case, I believe this will be the 'shop-window' opportunity if he gets the chance against the FCB. I've always been an admirer and I wish he went to Newcastle when the opportunity arose!

Celtic and Tony Mowbray. He's stated this morning that he's made some progress with the squad. With several new signings like Mark-Antoine Fortune, this tournament should let him see his ideas in practice for the first time. An assault on the SPL title will be their priority, so tests against sterner opposition is likely to be appreciated.

Al-Ahly. I fancy them to hold their own in this tournament. Being relatively unheard of, the Egyptians are the current African Champions League title holders. I really believe that African football, particularly northern is on the up. Any suspicions that they will be the whipping boys of this tournament will be wide of the mark in my opinion.