adminof a resurgent German Bundesliga.
Barcelona were humbled 7-0 on aggregate by German champions Bayern Munich on Wednesday, the day after Real almost overturned their shock 4-1 first leg defeat away to outsiders Borussia Dortmund, to go out 4-3 overall.
Like two ageing and distracted prize-fighters, tired after years of slugging it out between themselves for pre-eminence, Real and Barca have suddenly found themselves outclassed by hungrier and more dynamic opponents.
Since the first leg defeats, which prompted headlines of ‘Germany 8 Spain 1’ there has been much talk of a power-shift eastwards to the Bundesliga in European football.
The quality of football played by both the German teams has caught the eye, with their players appearing fitter and stronger.
Spanish media have also noted Bundesliga’s strict rules on club finances, greater fan-involvement, lower ticket pricing and the marvellous atmosphere in their stadiums.
One player ideally placed to make a comparison is Bayern Munich’s Javi Martinez, a Spanish international who Barca were keen to sign last summer, but who chose instead to head to Bavaria.
“I don’t know for sure but you can say they are doing a lot of things very well,” the 24-year-old midfielder told Spanish broadcaster Canal Plus, when asked if the Bundesliga was better than La Liga.
“The stadiums are always full, all the games at the Allianz Arena are in front of a full crowd. I don’t know if it is the best, but it is one of the best two or three.”
Not only has one of Spain’s most talented young players headed to Germany, the architect of Barca’s recent success Pep Guardiola is also lined up to replace Jupp Heynckes at Bayern for next season. — Reuters.
Online Reporter