Bayern Munich Star Philipp Lahm: Atletico Madrid Test Will Be Key in Determining Our Current Form
Bayern Munich starPhilipp Lahmbelieves Wednesday's Champions League match against Atletico Madrid will be an 'indicator' as to where they their current form is despite their perfect start to the season.
The former Germany international, as reported byGoal.com, has been an ever-present in Bayern's fine start to the season under Carlo Ancelotti.
The Bavarian giants have won their opening five Bundesliga matches in the defence of their title, while they have also started their Champions League campaign with a win.
But Lahm insists those wins were expected of Ancelotti's men and has pinpointed their clash against Atletico on Wednesday night as an 'indicator' to where their form lies.
"The results so far this season have been flawless after playing five games in the Bundesliga," he said.
"The first round of the cup and the first match in the Champions League. Five wins in the first five league matches is even a new record.
"But, if you look at it closer, all those wins were obligatory for us, considering we have won four Bundesliga titles in a row and are aiming high again this season.
"This sober consideration is important. Only today's match against Atletico will show us where we currently are with our performances in comparison to our international opponents."
The two met in the Champions League semi-final last season, with Diego Simeone's men coming out on top over the two legs on that occasion.
Atleti were accused of simply defending and Lahm believes Bayern were the 'stronger' team in their last meeting but insists they will be a stern test once again on Wednesday.
"If you analyse the two Champions League semi-final matches against Atletico from last season you can subjectively conclude a clear dominance by Bayern," he added.
We take a closer look at Bayern Munich's Champions League clash at Atletico Madrid tonight! https://t.co/8kxhekGdvv #AtletiFCB pic.twitter.com/ZplmwPKLzX
"We were the stronger team and dominated both games. But when it's a duel in the last four, or even the last eight, it's not solely about dominance or the demonstration of quality “ it's also about the result in each and every match."
He continued: "We have amended our concept a little bit. Today's match will be the first indicator of the current Champions League season and a test for our recent performances. We will see whether we are ready for this autumn's tasks that lie ahead, in the Bundesliga and in the cup, too."