The Bayern coach expects the Turin giants to cause his side trouble, while Matthias Sammer is full of respect for the Serie A champions, too
Bayern Munich coach Jupp Heynckes has praised Juventus’ strength in defence after the Bavarians were paired with the Italian champions in Friday’s draw for the quarter-finals of the Champions League.
The 67-year-old is not just wary of the Bianconeri’s quality at the back, though, and expects the quarter-final tie to be a tight affair.
“I know Juventus very well. They’re the best Italian team at the moment and they have a fantastic new stadium. They’re really high calibre, really tough opponents,” Heynckes told the official Bayern website.
“They’re extremely strong in defence and have lots of attacking quality. We’ll see great football, two fantastic knockout cup nights.
“I hope we have our noses in front at the end of the day, but it’s an evenly-matched pairing.”
Sporting director Matthias Sammer, meanwhile, is equally respectful for the Bianconeri and expects the tie to be well contested.
“Both teams are dominating their domestic championships. The Italian league is once again moving in the right direction, and that includes bringing on young players. They’ve long ago climbed out of the trough.
“Juventus are traditionally strong with good players. Form on the day in both matches will decide who goes through. Mentally and in terms of focus, a top-calibre team like Juventus is just right.”
The first leg is scheduled to take place on April 2 at the Allianz Arena.