Munich - Real Madrid are condemned to win the European Champions League after their summer spending spree, Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said on Monday. Rummenigge said ahead of his team's departure for a first group match at Israel's Maccabi Haifa that Real will have to prevail in what he names the toughest season ever in the elite event.
"They are condemned to win this cup, when you spend so much money. The fans and the public will demand that, after Barcelona cleared up all the trophies last season, Real Madrid does the same this year," said Rummenigge.
Real famously invested more than 250 million euros (364 million dollars) in the likes of World Footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka.
The Spanish giants are record winners of the European showcase event with nine titles, but have not lifted the trophy since 2002. In addition, this season's final on May 22, 2010, takes place in their home Bernabeu stadium.
Real open their campaign on Tuesday at Swiss newcomers Zurich.
However, Rummenigge is convinced that Real will have a hard time prevailing against Barcelona, the English challenge and other big names in the competition.
"It has never been more difficult to win this event," said Rummenigge.
