FC Bayern will meet some familiar faces in the round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League as the Reds face Arsenal. “We’ve been drawn against a side we know well,” said Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, who expects “tough matches” against the side currently second in the Premier League. Manuel Neuer spoke of “an interesting and tough job. We know Arsenal very well from recent years. We’ve faced them often enough, including two times in the round of 16.”
Reaction to the draw
Karl-Heinz Rummenigge: "It was an entertaining draw with some top ties. We’ve been handed Arsenal, who we know well. They are a good side. They are second in England and in good form. Both matches will be tough and we have to play well and concentrate to reach the quarter finals.”
Carlo Ancelotti: "They will be two interesting games and I’m really looking forward to them. I trust my team and hope that we can reach the quarter finals. We have to give ourselves a good chance for the second leg in London with a top performance at the Allianz Arena in the first leg. Arsenal have a very good side at the moment and a coach who I really rate. They are doing very well in the Premier League right now and have lost just once in the league so far this season. It will be tough but I am confident.”
Manuel Neuer: "It’s an interesting and tough job. We know Arsenal very well from recent years. We’ve faced them often enough, including two times in the round of 16. We remember those games fondly after progressing, but Arsenal are a strong team and I think they’re even stronger now than in recent years. One nice thing is that we will face fellow Germans Mesut Özil and Shkodran Mustafi.”
Mats Hummels: "I’ve already played against Arsenal with Dortmund, so I know them well. I’m looking forward to two entertaining games and have to say that Arsenal are a very attractive draw for FC Bayern and the fans. I’m specially looking forward to facing Germany teammates Özil and Mustafi and of course Per Mertesacker.”
Thomas Müller: "Arsenal are a tough task, no question. Two of Europe’s top clubs are facing each other but hopefully FC Bayern will progress in the end. I’m really looking forward to facing Mesut Özil, too.”
Jerome Boateng: "Arsenal are a good side and our fans can look forward to two top games. We already know Arsenal well from the Champions League and have generally positive experiences. Now it’s about knuckling down.”
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