Messi watching Bayern carefully

Barcelona star Lionel Messi is wary of Bayern Munich this season, acknowledging the Germans have improved markedly under Jupp Heynckes.

Following the off-season appointment of Heynckes, the Allianz Arena outfit have impressed both domestically and in Europe, a big improvement on their poor 2010/11 campaign under Louis van Gaal.

With Barcelona looking to make it three Champions League crowns in four years this term, their South American attacker has identified the Bavarians as a key contender for the continent’s top club competition.

“Bayern have a great team, and a very dangerous team,” Messi told Bild.

“They are stronger than last year. Except for (Bastian) Schweinsteiger they are all in top form. And importantly, the final of the Champions League takes place in their stadium. This is also a plus for them.”

When asked if he would ever consider leaving Barca for another club, Messi reiterated his desire to play only for the Catalans.

“My plan is to play my whole career for Barcelona. I would only go when I’m not good enough or the club does not want me,” he said.

Barcelona and Bayern Munich are two of the favourites for this season’s Champions League, and are on the verge of qualification from Group A and H respectively.