Former Bayern Munich great Michael Ballack does not necessarily think that Bayern Munich is one of the handful of favorites to win the Champions League this season.
However, Ballack also says that Bayern Munich could take a serious run at the title under the right circumstances.
“Bayern can beat any opponent. But we have to talk about momentum: Last season, they were eliminated in the quarterfinals by Inter Milan,” Ballack told Sport Bild. “That’s why Bayern aren’t among the absolute top favorites
for me, but rather a challenger. I also don’t count Manchester City among the top favorites based on their past performances and the upheaval.”
Ballack’s standard are pretty high as he does not even rate real Madrid as a favorite, either: “Not either. The situation there is somewhat comparable to that at Manchester City.”
So, who does Ballack think can do it? His responses probably will not shock you.
“Of course FC Barcelona. The team is strong, and especially in Lamine Yamal, they have an outstanding difference-maker in their ranks – and in Hansi Flick, a coach who’s a perfect fit. Of course, you have to count Paris St. Germain, as defending champions, among the top favorites. The team has become a top team under coach Luis Enrique,” said Ballack.
For what it is worth, Ballack think that Chelsea could surprise some folks as well.
Bayern Munich will square off with Chelsea in the Champions League at the Allianz Arena in what will surely be an electric atmosphere.
Germany’s biggest club will host a traditional English power…what else can you ask for? Let’s stop wasting time and get into this showdown between two of the more dangerous teams in the competition:
- What a crazy way to start the Champions League
- What to watch for with Chelsea — this team is loaded, but also does have a couple of injuries to deal with.
- A look at Bayern Munich’s injury situation as Vincent Kompany appears to have settled into his starting XI for big matches.
- A guess at Bayern Munich’s starting XI.
- A prediction on the match.
Also, be sure to stay tuned to Bavarian Podcast Works for all of your up to date coverage on Bayern Munich and Germany. Check us out on Patreon and follow us on Twitter @BavarianFBWorks, @BavarianPodcast @TheBarrelBlog, @BFWCyler, @2012nonexistent, @TommyAdams71 and more.
