Speaking to the Irish Times ahead of his side's friendly international with Hungary in Budapest on Monday, Trapattoni compared Hungary's former football prowess to Europe's modern elite.

"Honved and Hungary were great teams with so many great players," Trapattoni said. "They were a fantastic side, like Barcelona now."

"I played against them, also Florian Albert, who was a member of the second great Hungary team. I knew them later too because many defected to Spain after the Russians invaded."

The 73-year-old also warned that the current Hungarian side should not be underestimated in the slightest bit.

"The Hungarians still have that great tradition and the current team is part of that," said Trapattoni.

"Their football school is very beautiful; very technical and creative."