"Real Madrid" forward Gareth Bale believes that "Manchester City" deserves to be called an elite club.
However, at the same time, he mentions that the giants of Spain are superior because they have more experience.
Both teams are currently battling it out in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals - the first leg ended in a draw, and the second leg will be played on Wednesday.
"City impressed me," Bale said. "You can see that they are a very good team with excellent players. We know them well and constantly watch them while in Spain."
"At the moment, they definitely belong to the European elite. They are here deservedly, not just by luck."
"I am surprised that they were not in this stage of the Champions League a bit earlier, but they have great players, the club is still growing, and will become a force to be reckoned with."
"Of course, I have faced them before. They are strong, but so are we. The semi-finals will be decided in the second leg."
"I truly believe that we are more mature as a team (compared to the one that triumphed in the tournament two years ago - ed. note). We have more experience and have demonstrated that against 'City'.
"Real Madrid players remain favorites in the semi-finals. On the other hand, the opponents may have an advantage if the 'royal' club has to play the second leg without Cristiano Ronaldo."
