Karl-Heinz Rummenigge feels that Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Schalke have the rest of Europe running scared following their respective group stage successes.
All three German sides won their respective Champions League groups as they saw off the likes of Valencia, Real Madrid and Arsenal, and Rummenigge is delighted with the Bundesliga’s rise this season.
“At the moment, I don’t think anyone in Europe would be happy about facing a German team. We, and also Dortmund and Schalke, have earned great respect around Europe,” he said to the official Bayern website.
“It’s proof that the Bundesliga has carved out a place in Europe. Both Dortmund and Schalke survived difficult groups, meaning the Bundesliga has again made up valuable points on the Premier League in the five-year ranking.”
The Bayern CEO is eagerly anticipating the draw for the first knockout stage, and has stressed that the Bavarians have the necessary hunger to succeed in the competition.
“When I look at our potential opponents, there are a few big names in there. We’ll definitely continue to be highly motivated for the Champions League. Let’s see what we get in the draw.”
Bayern will find out who their opponents are on December 20 when the draw takes place in Nyon.