Skip to content

Pep Guardiola claims Arsenal have 'an advantage' over Bayern Munich

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Pep Guardiola believes Arsenal have the upper-hand ahead of their Champions League clash with Bayern Munich

Pep Guardiola expects to face a backlash from Arsenal at the Emirates on Tuesday when Bayern Munich take on the Gunners in the Champions League.

While the German champions have taken six points from their opening two European games this season, Arsenal are still looking to get off the mark.

And because of that, the Spaniard believes Arsene Wenger's men have a distinct advantage.

Bayern's head coach said: "In this situation they have an advantage because, for them, they have to win.

"And when that happens with these kinds of players, and the history of this club, they are going to make the best performance possible.

"I don't expect to face a team that won't fight for 90 minutes and in this situation they have an advantage.

Arsenal's Alexis Sanchez (left) dejected during the UEFA Champions League, Group F match v Olympiakos at Emirates Stadium, London
Image: Arsenal suffered a shock loss at home to Olympiakos three weeks ago

"We have to look for another way to compete against them because of the enthusiasm they will have, so we will have to be intelligent and control our game.

Also See:

"Of course I prefer to come here with six points but I can imagine my team with zero points and playing in Germany against Arsenal.

"I can imagine the mentality of my team: We would be an animal, because it is our last chance, you give everything and that will happen with Arsenal so you have to be prepared.

I don't expect to face a team that won't fight for 90 minutes and in this situation they have an advantage.
Pep Guardiola on Arsenal

"There are still 12 points up for grabs, we are not qualified yet and have to fight and against one of the best teams in Europe.

"They have great quality and are a very technical team. It is very difficult to find one Arsenal player who does not have quality."

Bayern midfielder Xabi Alonso also expects a tough battle on Tuesday, saying: "To see them with zero points after two games is a surprise.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Xabi Alonso says he's been surprised by Arsenal's start to their Champions League campaign

"But it's still tough. The next two games are crucial for us, and even more crucial for them. We know how good they are and if we don't control them well, we may have problems.

"I always love to play in England and still feel attached to the Premier League because of my years at Liverpool."

Get a Sky Sports Week Pass
Get a Sky Sports Week Pass

Watch Arsenal, Liverpool and two huge derbies live on NOW TV from £6.99 this weekend. No contract.

Around Sky