Vincent Kompany is ready for the Champions League

Manchester City skipper Vincent Kompany is relishing the challenge of pitting himself against Europe's elite in the Champions League.

City have been drawn alongside Real Madrid, Ajax and Borussia Dortmund, the champions of Spain, Holland and Germany respectively, in the group stages of the Champions League.

After failing to make it out of a group including Bayern Munich, Napoli and Villarreal last season, the task facing Roberto Mancini's side appears even tougher this term.

But Kompany said: "That is why you are in the Champions League. I thought it couldn't get much more difficult than last season but here you go. It is a great challenge.

"I do think we are the kind of team that gets better as the challenges are greater. That is perfect for us. There won't be any moments where we will be surprised.

"The motivation will always be sky-high. The atmosphere will be great in each of the six games we have in the group. I couldn't think of a better way to play the Champions League.

"I know it is all about how far you get in the competition but I still like to think it is even nicer when you play the best teams."