The Bayern camp radiated satisfaction following the draw for the Champions League group stage. CSKA Moscow, Manchester City and Viktoria Plzen represent attractive but not overwhelming opposition for the treble winners. However, key figures sounded a note of caution. “This group sounds easier than it really is,” warned Manuel Neuer. “We can take nothing for granted,” agreed chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. Nevertheless, the holders are champing at the bit in anticipation of their latest elite European adventure: “As for me personally, my spine is definitely tingling again,” said Thomas Müller.
Reaction to the Champions League draw:
Karl-Heinz Rummenigge: “We have Manchester City, CSKA Moscow and Viktoria Plzen. We especially mustn’t underestimate CSKA Moscow and Manchester City. We can take nothing for granted. Our target is a place in the Round of 16. All the German clubs face tough matches, but all of them have a chance of going through. The danger for all four clubs will be a failure to concentrate.”
Matthias Sammer: “This is an attractive group. Manchester City is a cracker. It’ll be awkward in Moscow, and we mustn’t underestimate Plzen. But we have to make it through to the next stage.”
Philipp Lahm: “Manchester City is certainly the best-known name, but regardless of our opponents, we’re the holders and automatically favourites in every match. Under no circumstances must we underestimate Plzen and Moscow.”
Manuel Neuer: “This group sounds easier than it really is. Plzen and Moscow are dangerous, and City are a really big name. But Bayern always have to qualify. We simply have to get through.”
Thomas Müller: “It looks a manageable group at first sight. City are a tough nut to crack. We can’t allow ourselves an off day in either match. As for me personally, my spine is definitely tingling again.”
Toni Kroos: “We could have a couple of tricky games ahead of us - the away game in Moscow for example. City are top class. But it’s like every year: if we play to our potential, we’ll go through.”
Jérôme Boateng: “We know Manchester City very well indeed, and it’s my former club too, so I’m looking forward to seeing some familiar faces. I don’t really know much about the other two clubs, but they won’t be in the Champions League by accident. Our clear target is to go through.”
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