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Cape Town - Feyenoord
have returned to the Champions League with a tough draw but captain
Karim El Ahmadi feels it remains favourable for the Eredivisie
Champions.
After winning their first league title since 1999, De Stadionclub were drawn with Shakhtar Donetsk, Manchester City and Napoli in Group F. And their inspirational midfielder El Ahmadi weighed in on their expectations following Thursday's group draw.
The former Aston Villa man, who has racked up 228 appearances for the Dutch side within two spells, feels they have a chance to make it out of the group if they perform to their potential.
"A club like Barcelona or Real Madrid was probably nicer, but Shakhtar was perhaps the best from pot 1 from a sporting perspective," the 32-year-old told his club's website.
"Manchester City stands out, I generally have good memories of the matches against City.
"They are a team of fantastic players. We'll go there to cause an upset. It's always great for the fans and it's not too far."
And in reference to Italian side Napoli, the veteran midfielder said: "A very good team, with a familiar face in Dries Mertens. It'll be a nice match.
"Some of the lads would have preferred to meet big clubs, others wanted a less strong group. But naturally, everyone is happy that we are playing in the Champions League."
