Luis Díaz Ready for Tough Bayern Munich Test Against Atalanta in Champions League

FC Bayern Munich forward Luis Díaz has acknowledged that the challenge in the UEFA Champions League is set to intensify as the competition reaches the knockout stage.

Bayern have emerged as one of the leading contenders to lift the trophy this season, with the final scheduled to take place in Budapest. Their first obstacle on the path to the final is Italian side Atalanta BC, who booked their place in the Round of 16 after eliminating Borussia Dortmund in the play-offs.

Díaz believes Bayern must raise their level significantly now that only Europe’s elite clubs remain in the competition.

“Things will now be more difficult compared to the league phase, because only the best teams remain,” the Colombian international said.

“Every team in the Round of 16 deserves to be there. Atalanta are a great club and it will be a tough job for us.”

Second-Leg Advantage Could Be Crucial

Díaz also highlighted the importance of playing the second leg at home, where Bayern will have the support of their fans behind them.

“Having the home advantage in the second leg is very important,” he added. “You can analyse what happened in the first leg and then focus on those details for the return match at home with our supporters behind us.”

The Bavarian side will first travel to Bergamo for the opening leg before hosting the decisive return fixture at the Allianz Arena.

Pitch Conditions Another Challenge

Bayern midfielder Joshua Kimmich has already been warned about the playing conditions at Atalanta’s home ground by members of the Dortmund squad, who recently faced the Italian side in Bergamo.

According to those reports, the pitch in Bergamo may not be in ideal condition, which could present an additional challenge for Bayern as they attempt to secure a positive result away from home.