Champions League

Manuel Neuer: 'Champions League will be fiercely competitive'

By Daniel Cross, Reporter | 16 September 2012

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is confident of success at home and in Europe ahead of his side's Champions League tie with Valencia.

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has predicted that this season's Champions League will be fiercely competitive.

Bayern, who were runners-up last season to Chelsea, face Valencia on Wednesday evening in a group that also includes BATE Borisov and Lille.

Neuer admits that although the draw has been kinder to his side this season, Bayern will encounter some tough games.

"Looking at the names on paper, we've definitely had a little more luck than last year," Neuer told Bundesliga.com.

"We still have to take every opponent seriously because they have all rightfully qualified, and from that point of view, it is going to be fiercely competitive once again."

Bayern have begun the season well, taking maximum points in their three Bundesliga games so far, and Neuer is confident that they can maintain their form.

He continued: "We showed that we can play sensible football when we need to.

"People can see for themselves the types of players we can call upon. We've gained in quality [in the summer] and we are capable of continuing in the manner we have started."

Bayern Munich host Valencia on Wednesday at 7.45pm.