Bayern Munich midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger believes that Barcelona are still the best team in Europe despite the German outfit's domination in the 2012-13 season.
The 28-year-old, who has won 13 major trophies at the club, was part of the side that overcame Barca 7-0 on aggregate in the semi-finals of the Champions League.
However, despite that result, the German international has claimed that the La Liga champions are still the team to beat in Europe.
"In my eyes, Barcelona is still the number one club in Europe. They have been so consistent at international level for the last six years. One cannot immediately stand up and say after winning a big title: 'We are now the new number one in Europe'," he told Bild.
"But in the first leg against Barcelona in Munich we reached perfection, we succeeded in our tactics. We made use of the previous season to bring on a really good development. [Former manager] Jupp Heynckes has managed to establish us as a true team. Now we really go as one both forwards and backwards.
"Even the attacking players have worked very hard defensively, which was the key to success. A team spirit has been created, which we benefited from this season - and from which we will benefit even more in the future."
Schweinsteiger recently underwent surgery on his right heel.
Matt Law
