Maradona tips Bayern to beat Real

Diego Maradona has predicted Bayern Munich will overcome Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-finals.

The outspoken Argentine has highlighted the Bundesliga giants as a blueprint for other sides to follow, and fancies them to beat Jose Mourinho’s men over two legs.

“In the case of Bayern Munich, the club is owned nine percent by Adidas, nine percent by Audi, and 82 percent by the partners and shareholders,” the South American commented in his column for TheTimes of India.

“Bayern Munich is a privately-held shareholding company, where the fans are the real bosses. For this reason the team can only spend as much as it makes, and success comes on the field and in marketing operations.

“This is an example of a well-run, democratic club which I personally think will defeat Real Madrid to reach the final of the Champions League against Barcelona.

“The final, incidentally, will be played in the beautiful Allianz Arena, home to Bayern Munich, favouring the Germans.”

Meanwhile, the Al-Wasl boss took a swipe at the likes of Manchester City and Chelsea for their overindulgence in the transfer market.

“Abu Dhabi-owned Manchester City lost 250 million pounds last year, while (Roman) Abramovich-owned Chelsea lost close to 80 million pounds.

“All of these clubs have billionaire owners who can write cheques to cover the losses of the clubs, but is this the best way to run a successful football team?

“I don’t believe so. It is an antiquated system destined to the dust heap.”