Barcelona may be the reigning Champions League title holders and have won five trophies in 2015 but Arsenal star Mesut Özil believes that the La Liga winners must show them respect.
Arsenal take on Barcelona in the Champions League Last 16 next month in what looks set up to be one of the most exciting ties of the round.
Özil told the Fanatik newspaper in a recent interview that Barcelona may currently be considered one of the best teams in the world but that Arsenal are a side that can beat anyone on their day.
The 27-year-old is under no illusions that Barcelona will be tough opposition but revealed that he loves and thrives under a challenge.
Özil said: “Arsenal always have big goals and we aim to win every competition we compete in. Barcelona are a great team and we have respect for them but I think they will also show us respect after all we beat Bayern Munich at home which shows we can defeat anyone. It will be a tough game but I love tough games.”
Arsenal beat Bayern Munich at the Emirates in the group stages but also lost 5-1 against the Bundesliga giants in Germany.
Özil has been in great form for Arsenal this season providing 16 assists in 19 Premier League games. The World Cup winner is no stranger to Barcelona having joined Arsenal from Real Madrid who just happen to be huge rivals.
Arsenal have played Barcelona seven times in European competition winning once, drawing twice and losing four times.
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