The French heavyweights edged out Stade Rochelais in last season’s final at Twickenham Stadium to clinch a fifth European title, and have been drawn against Wasps and Cardiff as they bid to defend their trophy.

But Mola was quick to admit that his side face a tricky task just to get out of Pool B when the competition gets under way in December.

“These are opponents that we are used to meeting for a few years,” said the Toulouse head coach. We have met Wasps several times, including a final in 2004 (Wasps won 27-20 at Twickenham on that occasion).

“We also met them in a rather dramatic match, losing in the last minute 17-14 back in the 2016-17 season. They are a tough opponent who got off to a great start to the league last year and are always complicated to play against.

"As for Cardiff, 25 years ago, we played a European Cup final against them for our first title so this is a very special opposition for us. We always like to travel to Wales and they are a historic European Cup club so they are an opponent to be taken seriously.

“We know we are targeted and you have to assume that. We had the ability last year to reach a European final and win it but we will prepare accordingly to face two opponents who are accustomed to these kind of big matches.

“The two teams are seriously equipped. We expect tough games in a competition that is a sprint - I often compare it to a hurdle race. The slightest hedge you hit can take you out of the game.”

Stade Toulousain head coach Ugo Mola has said that Wasps and Cardiff Rugby will need to be taken seriously if they are to reclaim their Heineken Champions Cup title and secure a record-breaking sixth European crown.