Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola believes securing an opening win in the Champions League against Olympiacos on Wednesday will be crucial as his side target elusive European success this season.
Die Roten kick off their Group F campaign in Piraeus having been frustrated at the semi-final hurdle in each of their past two seasons under Guardiola, despite the Spaniard being hired in 2013 to lead them to success in the competition.
And though he remains uncertain as to whether the Bavarians will be able to win the competition this term, the Spaniard is adamant they must get their season off to the right start with a win against Greek champions Olympiacos.
"Olympiacos are strong. The atmosphere at the stadium is magnificent, and so is the quality of the players," Guardiola told reporters at the pre-match press conference.
"It’s the Champions League, and all the teams are good. A win here would be a first step. This year we will try it again.
"But whether we win or not? I do not know."
Club CEO Karl-Heinz Rumenigge likewise spoke of the importance of a strong start, insisting the team take it a step at a time and warning against complacency at Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium.
"We have to concentrate and take it seriously. I’m not thinking about the final. We’d do well to take it step by step and make sure we qualify for the round of 16," he stated.
"It’s vital we don’t underestimate them [Olympiacos]. A few big teams have patently done that in the past and been on the end of upsets here."
The German champions arrive in the fixture on the back of four consecutive wins in the Bundesliga.
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