The Champions League will progress into the Round of 16 with just a single Serie A representative, after Atalanta’s remarkable comeback salvaged a disastrous campaign that nearly saw Italy unrepresented in the knockout stage for the first time since the current format was introduced in 2003-04.

Being the most influential sportsman in the world comes with a price, especially if you play for one of the best teams, which have direct rivals, as massive in fanbase, and in media influence.

Interesting narratives in Europe's top five leagues during the weekend as Arsenal return to winning ways in the North London derby, while Barcelona and PSG reclaimed the summit in LaLiga and Ligue 1. Inter extended their lead to 10 points in Serie A.

A host of high-stakes matches are coming up in Europe's top five leagues this weekend, especially in England and Germany, where the league favourites are involved in tricky fixtures.

Just a couple of weeks ago, it was all love and camaraderie at the Estadio da Luz after goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin scored a late goal to send Benfica into the elimination playoff while denying Real Madrid an automatic top eight slot.

The UEFA Champions League returns this week as teams begin their campaign to reach the round of 16 after some narrowly lost out on a top-eight finish while others just about earned their places among the top 24 teams.

Premier League top guns made their way into the fifth round of the Emirates FA Cup during the weekend with impressive wins as they continue to explore every possible means to end the trophy with silverware.

On a weekend of no Premier League action, the Emirates FA Cup makes up for England as they, like every other top league in Europe retuen to action at a tense stage of the season.