Trapattoni picks Bayern as favourites

Former Bayern Munich and Juventus coach Giovanni Trapattoni believes the German outfit have a slight edge in the Champions League tie.

The Bavarians defeated Antonio Conte’s men 2-0 at the Allianz Arena last week, but despite their advantage heading into the second leg of the quarter-final encounter, the Republic of Ireland boss does not think the Bundesliga club are through to the last four just yet.

“The Germans are favourites, but only by 51 per cent,” the 74-year-old told La Stampa on Monday.

“I’m optimistic, because history has shown us that we Italians often play great matches against German teams.”

Trapattoni went on to say that while the German champions have stars like Arjen Robben, Franck Ribery and Bastian Schweinsteiger, other factors can also be important in the game.

“Bayern have the best Dutchman, the best Frenchman and the best German player. However, in football, there are different values that come into play,” he said.