Magath emphasises finance ahead of United showdown

VfB Stuttgart coach Felix Magath has stressed the financial importance of the money-spinning Champions League to his club ahead of the clash with Manchester United at the Gottlieb-Daimler Stadium.

While English champions Manchester United are recognised as the richest club in the world with their global fanbase, Stuttgart are in the debt to the tune of around 16 million euros (18.7 million dollars) and see the competition as much-needed revenue.

"It is an honour to play in the Champions League," Magath declared Tuesday in the pre-match press conference. "Financial success can really solve a lot of our problems."

"We can help build bridges that we would not otherwise have been able to do."

Despite United being firm favourites in southern Germany, Magath, who had earlier joked that he would like to meet the English champions in the final of the competition, wants all three points from his Bundesliga leaders.

"I am just letting the euphoria continue until victory against Manchester United then I will put the brakes on," Magath explained before Wednesday's match.

"The players will certainly not underestimate their opponents and will need a lot of self confidence for this match."

German international Kevin Kuranyi, a scorer in the 2-1 opening Champions League defeat by Rangers, is looking forward to the glamour tie that has both the fans and players excited.

"Games against the likes of Manchester United are the highlights," declared Kuranyi. "Everyone will give their all as we want the three points."