Bayern Munich captain Philipp Lahm believes Real Madrid are once again the favourites for this season’s Champions League.
Los Blancos saw off the Bavarian side in the semi-final of last season’s competition on their way to success in Lisbon – the 10th time the club has won the European Cup.
And despite Pep Guardiola’s side doing some considerable strengthening this summer, including the purchase of Xabi Alonso from Real, Lahm believes Los Blancos are the team to beat.
Speaking to German football magazine Kicker, Lahm, who retired from international football after winning the World Cup this summer, said: “The club have strengthened an already-excellent team with a lot of money. Real are certainly the team to beat.”
However, the left-back admitted he is determined to win the trophy again before his hangs up his boots. Lahm was part of the Bayern team to lift the Champions League trophy in 2013.
The 30-year-old stated: “Real are certainly the team to beat. I want to win this trophy again. Whether with the squad we have this season or in the new three years, I want a shot at the title.”
Bayern Munich start their Champions League campaign with a game against Manchester City on Wednesday, while Los Blancos get underway on Tuesday with a match against Basle.
