Javier Mascherano feels Barcelona are ready to defend the Champions League trophy won as part of last season’s treble.
La Blaugrana begin their campaign against Roma on Wednesday and the Argentina international has told UEFA that the squad is prepared for what’s to come.
“We're really up for returning to the Champions League, a competition that's very special for us,” said Mascherano.
“Roma play football. This sometimes works well for us, but they're a quality side and we know they're going to play their game from the off and fight for every ball.
“They are a side with tradition and, above all, we know how hard it is to go to Italy and play. Tactically, they're teams that defend well and it's not easy to score against them. It will be a difficult game for us.
“As with each and every Champions League game, it will be intense. We know that we have to correct the things that went badly for us if we're to play a good game.”
