World Cup winner Lothar Matthaus has declared Manchester
United Europe's strongest team and also insists Real Madrid's
championship victory was a sure sign of how far the Spanish Liga
has slipped.
German legend Matthaus says the way Real clinched the Liga title
was simply showed how far Spain's top-flight had slipped behind the
Premiership and Serie A on the European table.
"Only the final weekend brought a definitive decision," said
Matthaus. "It was pure emotion for the fans, but also a clear
signal to the international competitors: Spain in no longer the
great European power.
"The two great clubs, Real Madrid and Barcelona, showed great
inconsistency and went through a lot of highs and lows during the
season."
Matthaus believes the Premiership and Serie A are now the superior
competitions and rates Manchester United and Inter Milan as
Europe's top two clubs.
"The troops of Sir Alex Ferguson dominated the Premiership and next
season surely they will win him another Champions League," added
the former Inter star. "They have two qualities that no-one can
touch - they're a young team and one that is improving all the
time."
Matthaus also highlighted United pair Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne
Rooney as key to their Champions League success.
On Real's title victory, Matthaus told Bild that it was down to two
players alone - the former Manchester United stars David Beckham
and Ruud van Nistelrooy.