By Lloyd Webb
Arsene Wenger says Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar are the “most efficient” strike force in the world.
The trio were instrumental to the Spanish side’s Champions League win last season and have already scored 91 goals between them this campaign.
Arsenal host Barcelona in the first leg of their last-16 clash on Tuesday and Wenger says his side must keep the Barcelona triumvirate quiet if they are to secure a positive result.
"I hope that that will give Petr a lot of confidence, and that he’ll keep him quiet"
Arsene Wenger
"They are the most efficient,” he said. "They are top, top class. Individually they have exceptional talent. The only way we can stop them is by being collectively resilient, having great solidarity and intelligence as well. Let’s not forget we have a good defensive record and a great goalkeeper as well.
"When you see the other day that Messi scored his 300th [La Liga] goal in less than 340 games, I’ve seen many strikers in my life, but I’ve never seen a record like that.
"I remember we played the Champions League final against Barcelona in 2006. He [Messi] was injured at the time and couldn’t play the final. That’s where he started already to have a reputation. That’s 10 years later, so it’s remarkable what he has achieved between 2006 and now."
Messi has never scored against Petr Cech, and Wenger hopes the goalkeeper can maintain his record on Tuesday night.
"I hope that that will give Petr a lot of confidence, and that he’ll keep him quiet,” he said. "I hope that Petr Cech will have a little complex tomorrow and the history plays for us and against him."
Messi Suarez Neymar
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