55 year old Chilean born Manuel Pellegrini just seems like one of those coaches you’d want to have the opportunity to play for, the type that gives his players the utmost confidence going into matches where they’re probably a bit over matched, but just don’t realize it because of the confidence instilled by the coaching staff.

Via UEFA 

Pellegrini as the utmost respect for both Arsenal and his opposite number Arsène Wenger, with whom he bares more than a slight resemblance; but he is fired by the belief that justice was not done the last time the teams met. That came in the last four three seasons ago when the Gunners bucked a trend that had seen them lose six of their previous nine games in Spain to earn a goalless draw and complete a 1-0 aggregate triumph. The coaches may share an attacking, flair-based approach but Pellegrini begs to differ with those who suggest he and his side were outdone by Wenger and Arsenal in 2006.

“I didn’t think Arsenal were favourites three years ago and nor, in the event, were they the better side,” said Pellegrini. “That result, particularly the goalless draw in the second leg, still leaves a bitter taste because we went out despite outperforming them. There is a huge difference between the two clubs in terms of wealth, let’s not lose perspective. But we both play on the same sized pitch and I expect my team to take the initiative this time. Arsenal are a little younger as a side than three years ago but have more experience. Players change but it’s an Arsène Wenger team and they will provide a good footballing test.”

“Despite the respect we have for teams at this level, our only thoughts are of coming here and trying to win,” said the Frenchman Pires. “This season has been marked by big injuries and we have worked very hard to get here. And now we have important players back again we can push on.”

“We possess great team spirit which has helped us fight lots of negative criticism this season; we are stronger now,” said Wenger, who is certainly not underestimating a Villarreal side that, in Pirès, contain “one of the greatest signings I ever made”. He concluded: “This is a 50-50 match and we must play our half of that very well.”

Image via BlogDeDeportes