Barcelona defender Gerard Pique has said that his side are determined to prove they are still the best club in the world, as the Catalan giants take on Manchester City in the Champions League on Tuesday.

Gerardo Martino's men have come under criticism for their more direct approach of late, while Barca have also been the subject of controversy following the resignation of club president Sandro Rosell.

"We know that in the club in the last six months there have been things that the players cannot control," said Pique, according to Goal.com.

"All we can do tomorrow is show the world that we can still be the best by trying to play a great game against Manchester City.

"Maybe other teams don't fear us as before, but I think they still respect us. We still have a lot of players who have won World Cups and the Champions League.

"Tomorrow is a great chance to go on the pitch and show that we are top players and that we can win here."

The first leg of the Champions League tie will be played at the Etihad Stadium.