Xabi Alonso: Simeone is a super coach...

The Champions League occasionally throws up a clash of the titans in the group stage and this year is no different with Xabi Alonso's Bayern Munich taking on Atletico Madrid, the Spaniard heaping praise on Diego Simeone ahead of Wednesday's match.

After a career spanning over a decade at the very top level, Alonso will face Los Colchoneros for the 25th time with his first appearance against the Madrid side coming in his Real Sociedad days way back in January 2003.

It has since been a procession of trophies for the playmaker who has achieved cult status at both Liverpool and Real Madrid, two of Europe's biggest and most reputable clubs.

Much has changed since he began his professional career in San Sebastian all those years ago and he attributes Atletico's rise to prominence to their Argentine coach.

"It is amazing what has been achieved, they [Atletico] have been the elite of European football in recent years and Cholo is responsible, I admire him and I respect and appreciate everything he has done, he is a super coach," Alonso explained.

At 34 years old the question of retirement is one that will always rear its ugly head yet the World Cup winner won't be rushed into a decision on his future past this season.

"No, I have not decided, as the months pass I will slowly start to think about going in one direction or another, I'll see what the club feels about me and decide whether to continue or take another path, time will tell but I have the freedom to chose and haven't set a deadline."

One of football's most memorable events will forever be intrinsically linked with Alonso despite the fact he wasn't even on the field in a playing capacity as Real Madrid won La Decima.

The image of the former Anfield hero leaping from his seat in the stand and running down the touchline fully dressed in suit and tie to celebrate is iconic and he himself feels it fully illustrated his passion.

"Yes, I remember, with football I am like a volcano, I feel so alive and when Gareth [Bale] scored the goal that passion was unleashed, I did what all Madrid fans would have liked to do."

Antoine Griezmann is very much at the forefront of the race for the 2016 Ballon d'Or following a wonderful season with Los Rojiblancos last term as well as his starring role at Euro 2016 and the Tolosa born midfielder feels the Frenchman is one of the best forwards around.

"I always knew he was a good player but he has been amazing, just look at the numbers he has and what he brings to the team, he is definitely one of the top strikers in Europe."

Bayern Munich are perennial favourites to challenge for the Champions League crown and are again this term, however Alonso feels there are a significantly higher number of challengers this term.

"Well I won't be very original but I feel the Spanish teams will be there along with Juventus and Manchester City."