Franck Ribery says the Europa League is no fun at all

"What stinks? Oh yeah -- the Europa League."

Bayern Munich are sitting in fourth place in the Bundesliga, just outside the third and final Champions league qualification spot, and they're starting to freak out about the possibility of missing Champions League play next season. First, Arjen Robben spoke up and declared the Europa League the worst thing of all-time ever.

From Reuters:

"I cannot imagine that (playing in the Europa League)," the 27-year-old Dutch international, who has played 52 games in the Champions League with PSV Eindhoven, Chelsea, Real Madrid and Bayern, told Bild newspaper.

"That is the worst that can happen. I think it is better if you don't play in it at all," said Robben, who has a contract with the German champions until 2013.

Robben was involved in both Bayern's goals but an 88th- minute strike enabled Inter to win 3-2 and snatch qualification on the away goals rule.

"Even winning the Europa League would not mean anything for me," he said. "That is not the title you want to win and it is not something I want."

So, to sum up, Arjen Robben loves the Europa League. Got it.

Now, Franck Ribery is chiming in to say that the Europa League is as much fun as a . From Soccernet:

"The Champions League is incredibly important for the team, the club and the fans,'' he said. "The Europa League is rubbish and we have got to avoid that.

"The ! best way is not to even think about that. Playing in the Europa League is no fun at all.

"Once you know the Champions League, then you always want to play in the Champions League.''

The UEFA Champions League: It's like crack. Just like crack.

Photo: Reuters