Spain's cycle of dominance is coming to an end, says Schuster

The 53-year-old thinks the time has come for German football to replace the Spanish game as the dominant force

Bernd Schuster believes that Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund's wins over Barcelona and Real Madrid respectively in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals is an indication that Spanish football's cycle is coming to an end.

Bayern recorded a 4-0 win over Barca at the Allianz Arena last week, while BVB defeated Madrid 4-1 at the Signal Iduna Park, and Schuster feels it might be Germany's turn to become the dominant force.

"Football works in generations," the former West Germany international told Marca.

"Over recent years Spain has had a great team and has produced some fantastic players, but every cycle comes to an end, much like what happened with Italy or Brazil.

"German football is trying to climb to the top of the pile right now. The first legs produced surprising results, but you have to believe it's possible to turn the ties around."

Madrid host Dortmund on Tuesday as they attempt to overturn their 4-1 first-leg loss, while Barcelona take on Bayern at Camp Nou on Wednesday.