Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola has praised Chelsea's ageing stars and has admitted that he is "excited" for his side to take to Stamford Bridge for the first leg of the Champions League semi-final this evening.

While there have been claims that the likes of Frank Lampard, John Terry and Didier Drogba are beginning to decline, Guardiola has stated that he "admires" the trio, who are all in their thirties.

"I do admire that generation of players," said the 41-year-old boss. "They have done so well over the last seven years and have got into so many semi-finals and finals, and competed in the Premier League so well.

"That's not easy, so I do admire what they have achieved. It will be exciting to play them."

Following the first leg tie Barca will have to face Real Madrid in El Clasico, while Chelsea take on Arsenal in the Premier League this weekend.