Ruud Gullit has predicted Bayern Munich as favorites to knock Chelsea out of the UEFA Champions League tournament.

The Blues welcome Bayern Munich to Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night in the first leg of the round of 16. Chelsea and Bayern Munich's last Champions League encounter was the 2012 final, which the London side won 4-3 on penalties after playing 1-1 at Bayern's Allianz Arena.

The captain of the team on that historic day was Frank Lampard, the current Chelsea manager.

Chelsea have fallen 35 points against runaway Liverpool and are fighting to secure a top four finish yet the former player and manager of the Blues believes Bayern are stronger and will excel in the tie between the two.

"I am no longer in close contact with Chelsea, I am now living in Amsterdam," Gullit told Goal and Spox. 

"But, of course, I follow the Blues and want them to win. Bayern are still a favorite - I said before the season that they can win the Champions League.

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"Bayern had problems this season, but also a lot of injuries. Now they have to overcome the first hurdle, but they have a good team and are still among my candidates for the title.

"It has to be said that there are no clear favorites this year with the exception of Liverpool. Almost all the top teams are weakening, whether it's Barca, Real, Juventus or Manchester City."

Chelsea have been eliminated in each of their last four Champions League home/away ties, failing to win any of their eight knockout games in that period. Since losing the 2012 Champions League final against Chelsea, Bayern Munich have eliminated English clubs in four of their five subsequent home/away ties in the competition.

Bayern won by 7-2 against Spurs in their last visit to England.