Bayern manager Niko Kovac comments about Messi, Real Madrid
What's the story
Bayern Munich manager Kovac will be debuting in the Champions League, tonight, when his team squares off against Benfica in their group stage encounter.
Ahead of the match, Kovac has made comments about Leo Messi and Real Madrid.
He thinks Real Madrid are great even without Cristiano Ronaldo and Leo Messi is the best footballer.
Further details follow.
Twitter Post
Bayern Munich look ready for their Champions League opener
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Real Madrid
What did Kovac say about Real Madrid?
The Bayern manager said that Real Madrid's three consecutive wins is a historic accomplishment and it is highly unlikely that the feat will be achieved in the foreseeable future.
Regarding Ronaldo's absence, Kovac thinks that Real are still a great side, but they should remember they have won La Liga just once in last three years.
Messi-Ronaldo
Kovac's comments on the Messi-Ronaldo debate
Kovac also made it clear about which footballer he prefers between Messi and Ronaldo.
According to him, Messi is, and always will be the best player.
Kovac said, "Ronaldo is also a world-class player. His style impresses me. This is not innate but trained. You have a lot of players with natural talent, but you have to develop your own talent."
Chances
Teams which Kovac thinks have a shot at UCL title
Kovac stated that he considers Barcelona and Atletico Madrid as favorites, from Spain to clinch the Champions League title.
He continued, "PSG and Juventus are favorites too. It is difficult for smaller teams to progress beyond the last 16. The big clubs have a lot more money, the stars in their ranks and a higher quality."