For the majority of football fans and pundits alike, Manchester United's fight for the Champions League is about to come to a stuttering and potentially embaressing end. The challenge that faces them as they prepare to welcome Bayern Munich to Old Trafford on Tuesday night, is daunting. Pep Guardiola's Bayern squad are arguably the best side in the world, and they have looked ruthless on their march to winning the Bundesliga this season. With the title wrapped up with seven games to spare, Bayern's attention will be focused firmly on attempting to become the first team to win back-to-back Champions League titles. Not many would bet against it. United manager David Moyes has seen his side complete a tremendous comeback against Greek giants Olympiakos already in Europe this year, but was quick to recognise the enormity of the task facing the Red Devils over two legs: "When we drew them, I felt we'd drawn probably the best team in Europe at this present time," stated Moyes. "I think most people would agree with that. I quite enjoy German football actually and going to the games but Munich are a little bit of a class above the other teams, including Borussia Dortmund." He was also quick to point towards the importance of playing high-tempo football, pressing Bayern in their passing game: "I really enjoyed watching them last year as they have great energy. We have got a really tough game and know exactly what we are going to get but we'll try to exploit little bits of weaknesses they have got." The United boss also offered his comments on manager Pep Guardiola, praising his obvious talents but also suggesting that the Spaniard had benefited from his year out: "It's been different [for Guardiola]," he said. "I am sure he had done a lot of homework and had a year's preparation before taking the job in Munich. He learnt German, watched the games and learned a lot about the players. "I do think he took over maybe a little more prepared and ready and, with respect, they were the champions of Europe as well so he had a lot of things in place." Whether in place or not, it is undeniable that the work that Guardiola has done with Bayern this season has turned them into an outfit to be feared, and they are undoubtedly the team to beat in Europe. It appears that for all the positive preparations, David Moyes and his side have got it all to do.
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