G.Pique: "Maybe many rivals are no longer afraid of us" © EuroFootball.com

Before the first Champions League knockout match, Barcelona defender Gerard Pique warned the Manchester City team not to underestimate his club's strength.

"Perhaps many of our competitors are no longer afraid of us because we have failed to win the Champions League for two years in a row.

However, I hope that the sense of respect is still there," said the 27-year-old footballer.

"Our team includes several players who have previously won the World Cup, the Champions League, and the Spanish league.

Therefore, I believe that we can once again become the best and prove to everyone our strength," Pique said.