Bayern Munich coach Niko Kovac believes Real Madrid are still strong - even without Cristiano Ronaldo.

Kovac regards the current Champions League holders as favourites for the title.

"That Real has won the title three times in a row is unique. I do not think that will happen again in the near future," Kovac said.

"Real has changed without Cristiano Ronaldo but is still a very good team. It's great to win the Champions League three times, but it's also important to remember that they only won the Spanish championship once in the three years.

"This shows that it is very difficult to do well in all three competitions. But I am convinced that Real will play a very good role again this year."