The former Bayern president, long known for his strong opinions and readiness to praise the club when standards are met, reflected on the highs and lows of the UEFA Champions League following a statement victory over Chelsea.
Bayern opened their Champions League campaign with a convincing 3-1 win against the Premier League side, a result that Hoeness believes underlined the team's European credentials.
While acknowledging that the competition inevitably brings challenges, he argued that Bayern's overall trajectory is firmly upward, even after a notable league-phase defeat to Arsenal that has left them second in the standings.
"We've proven this season that we can compete with the very best. We beat Chelsea, one of the best teams in the world," Hoeness said via iMiaSanMia.
"We won in Paris [1-2] and deservedly lost against Arsenal [3-1], a superb team.
"But I would already describe FC Bayern as one of the three to five best teams in the world."
Under head coach Vincent Kompany, Bayern have made a dominant start across competitions. Domestically, they sit top of the Bundesliga after 15 matches, remaining unbeaten with 13 wins and an imposing goal difference of +44.
Much of that success has been driven by Harry Kane, who has already scored 19 league goals by the winter break.
Nicolas Jackson's long-term future at Bayern Munich has remained unclear, with his agent admitting that no decision has been made and suggesting it is too early to assess what happens next.
Jonathan Tah has said Vincent Kompany played a decisive role in convincing him to join Bayern Munich, with the defender insisting the move has already helped him grow as a player.
Luis Diaz has spoken glowingly about the quality within Bayern Munich's squad, admitting he has been particularly struck by the influence of superstar striker Harry Kane.
Jonathan Tah has expressed optimism over Dayot Upamecano's future at Bayern Munich, insisting his defensive partner "feels very, very comfortable" at the club.
