Ancelotti: Bayern favourites in Europe

Carlo Ancelotti has claimed that Bayern Munich are the favourites to win the Champions League this season.

Real Madrid are looking for ‘La Decima’ – their 10th European Cup – under the Italian coach. However, Ancelotti has insisted that the Bundesliga outfit are favourites to retain their crown.

“The Décima is a big motivation for all of us. We have nine [European Cups], we're all waiting for the tenth and we will do all we can to get it,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

“Our rivals? All sides are dangerous. In the quarters onwards all teams are competitive, although Bayern are the favourites.”

The former Chelsea manager also commented on the race for the league title, and his surprise at the form of Gareth Bale, Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema.

“The league is uncertain, the distances are very small and it's all to play for. Our growth? We lost time trying to find our equilibrium, it was hard but now we're more solid and doing things better.

“I’ve been surprised by all of them a little. I have a very professional group of players, who work well together.

“These players might possess the most quality, but the others are a young, motivated group.”