Bayer Leverkusen Players Voice Preference for Arsenal Clash in Champions League Knockout Stage
In a surprising revelation ahead of the Champions League last 16 draw, Bayer Leverkusen stars have openly stated their preference to face Arsenal rather than domestic rivals Bayern Munich. The German club secured their place in the knockout phase with a goalless draw against Olympiacos, protecting their two-goal advantage from the first leg.
Andrich Advocates for Avoiding German Opponents
Midfielder Robert Andrich was particularly vocal about his desire to steer clear of Bundesliga competitors in the next round. He emphasized that avoiding German teams could benefit the nation's overall representation in the competition.
'We knew from the start that we would face a top club anyway,' Andrich stated. 'I stand by my opinion: I would prefer not to face a German team, so that perhaps enough German teams can still stay in the competition.'
Hoffman Echoes Sentiments for International Fixture
Teammate Jonah Hoffman reinforced this perspective, suggesting that an all-German tie lacks the distinctive character of the Champions League. He expressed enthusiasm for the prospect of traveling to London and hosting Arsenal in Germany.
'I think it's a bit too early for a German-German tie,' Hoffman remarked. 'It doesn't have this Champions League character somehow. So if I could have my wish, then Arsenal. It would be a bit cooler to travel to London and for them to come here.'
Historical Context and Current Form
Arsenal last faced Leverkusen in the Champions League during the 2002 second group stage. The Gunners delivered a commanding 4-1 victory at Highbury and secured a respectable draw away, though Leverkusen ultimately advanced alongside Deportivo La Coruña.
This season, Arsenal have emerged as strong contenders, completing the group stage with eight consecutive wins. Their impressive campaign includes a notable 3-1 triumph over Bayern Munich, positioning them as favorites should they meet Leverkusen.
Sporting Director Welcomes the Challenge
Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes acknowledged the daunting task ahead but expressed openness to facing Arsenal. He highlighted the narrative of potentially competing against former players Kai Havertz and Piero Hincapie.
'Arsenal would be nice,' Rolfes commented. 'I said the same thing when we could've faced Dortmund in the previous round. Especially that we would be able to meet two of our former players. Nobody wants these ties between teams from the same country.'
Potential Draw Scenarios for Premier League Clubs
The Champions League draw presents various possibilities for English teams:
- Arsenal: Borussia Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen, or Atalanta
- Chelsea: Newcastle, Monaco, or PSG
- Liverpool: Atletico Madrid, Galatasaray, or Juventus
- Manchester City: Bodo/Glimt, Real Madrid, or Benfica
- Tottenham: Atletico Madrid, Galatasaray, or Juventus
- Newcastle: Chelsea or Barcelona
Other notable potential matchups include Barcelona facing Newcastle, Monaco, or PSG, and Bayern Munich drawing Borussia Dortmund or Bayer Leverkusen.
As the football world anticipates Friday's draw, Leverkusen's candid remarks add an intriguing layer to the pre-draw discussions, underscoring the complexities and preferences that shape elite European competition.
