FCBARCELONA.CAT

19.03.2010 14:05

Piqué: "Arsenal are a tough team"

David Puig

Gerard Piqué knows all about Arsenal and highlighted their attacking play and the influence of Cesc Fàbregas as reasons why FC Barcelona will have to be at their best to beat the Gunners in the Champions League.

The Catalan defender believes that the quarter final will be tough but also attractive as he paid tribute to the football the London outfit play under manager Arséne Wenger. “I like the way that Arsenal play,” Piqué explained. “They move the ball around and they look to keep possession like we do. We have similar styles and we will have to see who triumphs.”

Arsenal are not the inexperienced side that many may feel, according to the Barça star. “They reached the Champions League final last season when they lost to Manchester United. In the Premier League they have a chance to win the title and I think Arsenal are a tough team.”

The Cesc factor

Stopping Fábregas could be the key to stopping Arsenal, Piqué believes. “He is the one that creates the play and is the most important player in their team,” he explained. “They certainly have other good players that compliment Cesc, but he is most important.”

Zaragoza chance

Before Barça meet Arsenal they have three more league games, starting at la Romareda against Real Zaragoza on Sunday. “I spent a very good season there,” Piqué stated. “They have me my first chance in La Primera and had some great times. The team did well and we qualified for the UEFA Cup. Everyone helped me so much and I am very grateful.

“Now we have three games in the league and we have to treat each one as a final if we want to win the title again,” Piqué continued. “We have to beat Zaragoza any way that we can to move forward. The team is doing well and we have improved since February like we did last season. I hope that we can continue improving and go for both trophies.”