Mueller not looking back

Bayern Munich forward Thomas Mueller says he is not using last season’s Champions League failure as motivation to win this season.

Bayern Munich forward Thomas Mueller says he is not using last season’s Champions League failure as motivation to win this season.

Chelsea beat the Bavarians in a penalty shoot-out at their own stadium, the Allianz Arena, in the 2011/12 European final.

Jupp Heynckes’ men face Arsenal in the Champions League last 16 on Tuesday in the first leg away from home, but Mueller said last season’s loss was not a primary motivator.

“I do not care for revenge,” the Germany international told Kicker. “I just want to win this thing, as quickly as possible.

“Therefore, our goal this year again is to get to the final again. We are in good form and are not afraid of Arsenal. We strive to play to our maximum everywhere.”

Mueller insisted there is not a club in Europe that Bayern fear, though he accepted there are footballing juggernauts still in the competition that will be tough to beat.

“We can compete with any team in Europe,” he added. “We know from the last three years what we can achieve.

“However, Barcelona are able to play exceptional football, and also Manchester United are constant threats in England.

“(Barcelona) have broken incredible records. For years Barcelona have worked in this way.

“Their growing understanding within the team applies to us as well. For example, because the whole team takes part, we are better defensively this season.”

Bayern head into the game on the back of a 2-0 victory over Wolfsburg, while Arsene Wenger will be hoping the Gunners can avoid another home defeat after being beaten 1-0 by Blackburn Rovers on Saturday.

“We want to win against Arsenal,” Mueller added. “No matter when and where: we have to win this thing (the Champions League) at some point.”