Lahm: We didn't want Arsenal

 

Bayern Munich captain says his side were hoping to avoid the Gunners in the Champions League last 16 draw but is still confident of advancing to the next round

Philipp Lahm has admitted that Bayern Munich did not want to face Arsenal in the last 16 of the Champions League.

The reigning European champions overcame the Gunners at this stage of the competition last term en route to the title and were handed a repeat tie against Arsene Wenger's men.

The north Londoners overcame Bayern last term at the Allianz Arena and also claimed victory against Borussia Dortmund last month in Germany and Lahm believes the draw has been harsh on his side.

"They are the strongest team that we could have drawn, and it's certainly not what we were hoping for," Lahm told reporters.

"Arsenal have made some quality new signings and will prove a real challenge for us, but our goal is obviously to reach the next round."

And Lahm's defensive companion Jerome Boateng says he is also expecting a testing encounter.

"Arsenal are the toughest team that we could have drawn. They will be highly motivated after we knocked them out last season and we are expecting two very intense games."