Barcelona are the best team in the world, says Galliani

The AC Milan CEO has claimed that the Catalan side are the best team in the world, despite the Rossoneri defeating them in the first leg of their Champions League clash

AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani has expressed his admiration for Barcelona, claiming that they are the best team in the world despite his own side's first-leg win against them in their Champions League tie.

Galliani heaped praise upon Barcelona, and said they remain the best team in the world regardless of some disappointing recent results.

"We'll see [our quality] against the best team in the world," he told reporters.

"It is one of the greatest games that we have played this year. We are anxious about the potential absences of Pazzini and Mexes, but we won't have regrets if we have to play without anyone."

And Galliani acknowledged the importance of ensuring Milan's continued involvement in the competition, adding: "The Camp Nou will be watched worldwide, and it is essential for us to get back in the Champions League again next year."

The 68-year-old also insisted that Milan will aim to play their own game against Barcelona and believes his side will triumph over the Spanish giants.

"We won't look to man the barricades, we will play our game," he said.

"I'm rooting for my side, but Barcelona will want to return strongly after playing poorly in Milan. They may have had a drop [in form], but the Blaugrana remain the strongest in the world."

Galliani also emphasised the importance of ensuring a good end to their Serie A season, adding: "From January to June, my goal is to be league champions and it has been since I got here.

"I'm here to finish first. I don't ever play for second place, or for third."