De Jong: Juventus are better than Real Madrid Champions League Highlighted Los Blancos' poor form

Ajax midfielder Frenkie de Jong has argued that their upcoming Champions League rivals Juventus are superior to Real Madrid.

The Dutch side eliminated Los Blancos in the Champions League's round of 16, advancing 5-3 on aggregate after prevailing 4-1 in the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu.

"I rate Juventus a little higher than Real Madrid," De Jong told De Telegraaf.

"Don't get me wrong, Madrid are a top club, but this season their form is somewhat less [than when they won three consecutive Champions Leagues].

"Juventus are one of the favourites for the trophy. I am curious how we will deal with them. It is a great challenge.

"If we reach our normal level, we can also make it difficult for Juventus.

"I hope that Cristiano Ronaldo has recovered from his injury and plays. He's a top player and although the chances of us winning are greater [if Juventus] are without him, I want to play against and beat the best players."

The first leg will kick off on Wednesday at 21:00 CET at the Johan Cruyff Arena.