Watzke wary of Napoli challenge

The Borussia Dortmund CEO has praised the Italians following a summer of heavy spending, and insists his own side have not been affected by last season's run to the final

 Borussia Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke has warned his side they face a stern test against Napoliin their Champions League opener on Wednesday.

Last season's beaten finalists visit the Stadio San Paolo for their Group F opener, and Watzke has identified the Italians as serious challengers for the top spots in the group following a summer spending spree which saw the likes of Jose Callejon, Gonzalo Higuain and Pepe Reina join the club.

"Napoli have strengthened their squad superbly. We know that it's going to be a very tough task," he told reporters prior to Dortmund's flight to Naples.

"The Champions League is not like a normal season; it's more like a cup competition. You must be ready from the start."

Watzke went on to stress that the team have not been affected by the increased publicity and attention following their remarkable run to the final in 2012-13, where they were beaten by domestic rivals Bayern Munich.

"A lot of things have changed," he said. "If you reach the final of the world's biggest club competition, you receive a different level of attention. But that doesn't affect us; we are the same as before."

Wednesday's clash at the San Paolo kicks off at 20:45CET.