UEFA Champions League: 10 Dream Matchups in the Champions League Knockout Round

I've always said that the Champions League truly beings in the knockout stages.

It's what sets apart the competition from domestic league football, hence it's global popularity.

Now then, when looking at potential matchups in the knockout stages, it's almost impossible to resist the bias towards the superpowers of European football.

As a result, 10 dream matchups in the UEFA Champions League knockout stages include European powerhouses such as: AC Milan, Arsenal, FC Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Manchester City, Manchester United and Real Madrid.

AC Milan vs. Manchester City

A lot has changed at Manchester City since the 2008-09 season.

Well, I guess almost everything has changed: the manager, the players, the owners and even the name of the stadium.

Nonetheless, this potential rematch of City's 1-0 friendly victory over the Serie A Giants in 2008-09 could be an absolute stunner.

Both clubs have tremendous attacking prowess, which should make for an amazing tie.

Bayern Munich vs. Manchester United

These two storied football franchises have had their fair share of Champions League drama over the years.

Their latest encounter in 2010 ended Manchester United's hopes of reaching yet another UCL final.

Another meeting between Bayern and United would surely be another instant classic.

Arsenal vs. FC Barcelona

Last season, the Gunners traveled to the Camp Nou with a 2-1 lead and were 90 minutes away from defeating their European rivals.

Unfortunately, the tie was determined by the controversial sending off of Arsenal striker Robin van Persie by Swiss referee Massimo Busacca.

Hopefully this season's potential matchup will not be determined by another ridiculous decision by the referee.

Arsenal vs. Manchester United

The last time these two English teams met, United embarrassed the Gunners at Old Trafford by a historic score of 8-2.

Anyone up for a rematch?

Real Madrid V. Arsenal

Premier League fans know how entertaining watching the Gunners can be.

No matter who they seem to play, there is always a plethora of goals or goal-scoring chances.

Madrid have more world-class attackers than any other squad in Europe. We all know what that means, 10-9 on aggregate.

FC Barcelona vs. Manchester City

With Manchester City in "invincible" form at the moment, a potential tie with Spanish giants Barcelona looks extremely appetizing to any football fan.

Roberto Mancini's comments last week couldn't have possibly set up this potential tie any better.

"I don’t think we are playing better than Real Madrid and Barcelona but we are probably the same level now," said Mancini. "We are very close to these teams."

Real Madrid vs. Manchester City

The managers will make all the headlines if Real Madrid meet Manchester City in the Champions League knockout stages.

Mancini vs. Mourinho, a battle between two former Inter Milan bosses, could determine which side advances between these two immensely talented squads.

Real Madrid vs. Manchester United

The highlight of this tie would without any doubt be Cristiano Ronaldo's highly-anticipated return to Old Trafford.

The Portuguese talisman has somewhat infamously failed to rule out a move back to Manchester in the future.

A good performance by United may just lure CR9 back to Manchester. We shall see.

Real Madrid vs. FC Barcelona

Was their any doubt that El Clasico would make the list? Surely not.

Expect another competitive and heated matchup between these two bitter rivals if they are to meet in the Champions League in 2011-12.

Manchester United vs. FC Barcelona

Will the third time be the charm for United?

Only time will tell, but do not expect a different result if Sir Alex doesn't bolster the Red Devils' midfield in January.