'Bayern Munich are ready' - Guardiola

Posted Friday, August 02, 2013 by Goal.com

The Spaniard's troops went a goal behind but came back to beat Manchester City, with goalscorer Thomas Muller commending the side's progress

Pep Guardiola says Bayern Munich are ready to defend their status as German and European champions following a successful pre-season where they won the Audi Cup, beating Manchester City 2-1 in the final.

Die Roten racked up an incredible 65 goals in pre-season friendlies, culminating in Mario Mandzukic's winner after Thomas Muller had levelled from the spot following Alvaro Negredo's opener for Manuel Pellegrini's men on Thursday.

And, with a DFB-Pokal first round clash against Schwarz-Weiss Rehden to come followed by the Bundesliga opener against Borussia Monchengladbach, the Spaniard believes his side are ready for the challenge which lies ahead.

"I am satisfied. During the first half we played well. During the second half it became clear that this was our second game in two days," Guardiola told reporters, adding: "We are ready."

Muller, who netted 13 times in the Bundesliga last season and scored the crucial equaliser against City, also feels the club are suitably prepared for the start of the new campaign.

"We are at a good level," he said. "But, against a top team like Manchester City, we have problems at preventing any scoring chances just as any other [side] would."