Ronnie returns after three games out with a groin injury, which was coupled with some Spanish media criticism, questioning the superstar's private life attitude.

The 27-year-old playmaker has been also subject to continuous speculation linking him with a move outside Nou Camp, but the Brazilian insists he will remain a Catalan.

"I'm annoyed but life isn't always perfect. In moments like these I concentrate on my work and will give my response on the pitch," Ronaldinho told El Mundo Deportivo.

"I feel at home in Barcelona and that's due to the people here. I am looking forward to returning to action to prove I am happy and that I want to stay for many years."

Ronaldinho is hoping to repeat the 2006 European cup triumph, when Barca clinched the Champions League trophy and the Spanish Primera Liga.

"We want to go down in history not as a team that won many leagues and a European Cup (in 2006) but one that won many European Cups," he said.

Barca will miss injured Cameroon star Samuel Eto'o, who is joined by Yaya Toure and Gianluca Zambrotta on the sidelines, while Gabriel Milito is doubtful.

Dream Come True

Stuttgart manager Armin Veh described facing a team of Barca's caliber as a dream come true for the German tactician.

"This is a dream come true, I used to watch Johan Cruyff's side and loved the way they played, so free-flowing, so attacking. Ever since I started coaching it has been a dream of mine to stand on the touchline against Barcelona," he said.

Veh is aware that his side will face a high-profile opposition deemed as firm favorites to win the group.

"Barcelona are obviously stronger than us and they will start as massive favorites, but we won't change our way of playing just because it is them," said Veh.

The German champions will have late fitness tests on midfield duo Thomas Hitzlsperger and Yildiray Basturk.