Slovenian Stars Janc and Makuc Eye Fourth European Title with Barcelona

The iconic Lanxess Arena in Cologne is set to host the EHF Champions League finals this weekend, featuring Europe's top handball teams. Among them are Slovenian national team players Blaž Janc and Domen Makuc, both members of FC Barcelona, who are considered slight favorites for the title.

Barcelona, aiming for a record-extending 13th championship, will compete against Denmark's Aalborg in their semi-final match today at 6 p.m. Earlier, at 3 p.m., a repeat of last year's final will see German rivals Magdeburg, the current titleholders, face Füchse Berlin. The championship final is scheduled for Sunday at 6 p.m.

For Janc and Makuc, who have already secured three European titles with Barcelona in 2021, 2022, and 2024, this could mark their final games for the club. Makuc is transferring to Kiel, and there are rumors that team captain Janc, despite having a contract until 2028, might also be seeking a new club.

Magdeburg boasts five titles, while Berlin and Aalborg, a two-time finalist, are still seeking their first championship. The upcoming season will see the Champions League expand to 24 teams. Celje Pivovarna Laško has applied for an invitation to potentially join the elite competition. The participants will be announced on June 26, following a draw that will also include the women's team Krim Mercator, record holders for consecutive appearances in the women's Champions League.