Arsene Wenger has urged his Arsenal side to play without fear when they face Barcelona on Wednesday.
Arsenal manager looks forward to Barca showdown
Arsene Wenger has urged his Arsenal side to play without fear when they face Barcelona on Wednesday.
Barca outclassed Wenger's men last term when they met in the UEFA Champions League and they go head-to-head again this year.
Pep Guardiola's side are regarded as arguably the world's best team and are favourites to see off the Gunners.
Yet, after the harsh lessons of their last encounter, Wenger maintains his team are ready to come of age.
Arsenal managed to draw the first game 2-2 at the Emirates but at Camp Nou they were taken apart by Lionel Messi who netted all four goals.
Respect
"I can't deny we showed them too much respect last season, especially in the first half of the first game," said Wenger.
If it is possible, Barca seemed to have improved since last year, as their 5-0 dismantling of Real Madrid illustrated.
Wenger, however, feels his team have also grown.
"It's a disadvantage for them to play us as well," he added.
"We know from last season's games that what is most important is to play at our level.
"Barcelona are maybe better this season than last season but so are we. That will make the game more interesting."
