Hitzfeld: Ferguson has Bayern fear

Ottmar Hitzfeld says Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is keen on avoiding Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

Bayern – who Hitzfeld managed for seven seasons in two different stints – have marched to the summit of the Bundesliga and sit top of Group A in the Champions League

English Premier League holders Manchester United, on the other hand, are going through a shaky period after being dispatched ruthlessly 6-1 at Old Trafford by bitter rivals Manchester City, while they have been inconsistent in Europe.

Now in charge of Switzerland, Hitzfeld was present at United’s heavy derby defeat last Saturday and has spoken of a conversation he held with Ferguson.

“He said that he really liked (Bayern) so far this season and sees them as major competitors to win the Champions League. He wants to avoid them for as long as possible,” the 62-year-old told Bild.

United were knocked out of the Champions League by Bayern in the 2009/10 campaign, with Arjen Robben scoring the decisive goal.

Hitzfeld feels the Netherlands international – who experienced a delayed start to the season through injury – is a crucial player for Jupp Heynckes’ men.

“Robben is really important. With him, they are unpredictable and have a more decisive weapon,” he said.