Nasri: Messi met Barcelona &amp in 2008-11; Messi is simply unsolvable. Wenger is a precious person like gold

On May 7, Arsenal and Manchester City midfielder Nasri was interviewed by French media "Team News" and talked about Messi, Wenger and others.

Which game is the most unforgettable for you?

Nasri: "At the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal defeated Barcelona 2-1 (the first leg of the UEFA Champions League 1/8 finals in 10-11). I also gave an assist for the second goal. Good memories (laughs). We could hardly get the ball in the second leg, and the referee's penalty was a bit unfavorable. After Van Persie was sent off by a red card (in the 56th minute, he received the second yellow card without hearing the referee's whistle), we lost 1-3. That was the invincible Barcelona under Guardiola, and it was simply unbeatable. It was indeed impressive."

Which game he wanted to play most?

Nasri: "The second leg of the Champions League semi-final against Manchester United in his first season at Arsenal (08-09). Ronaldo scored twice to miss the final (1-3). The victory or defeat depends on the experience of the competition. At that time, our team was young and lost 0-1 at Old Trafford in the first leg. The audience at home was thunderous in the second leg. We had a chance to turn the table, but our legs seemed to be filled with lead. In the end, we failed. We knew this opponent well and were used to confronting each other. Such a loss was even more bitter, and you would feel too frustrated. I would rather lose to Real Madrid or Barcelona."

The most exciting goal?

Nasri: "Arsenal's 5-0 Porto battle (the second leg of the Champions League 1/8 finals on March 9, 2010). I broke through three or four defensive players in a row on the right and scored in the far corner. This key goal ensures that we advance to the quarterfinals. The goals in the knockout stage are always unique."

Have encountered the strongest opponent?

Nasri: "Messi. He scored four goals in his solo goal against Arsenal at Camp Nou (the second leg of the Champions League quarter-finals on April 6, 2010). Even when facing many superstars, he can only make his opponents fear. I saw defenders, defensive midfielders, goalkeepers and even coaches all formulate plans to defend Messi... Every time he touches the ball, he is in danger. To be honest, from 08-09 to 10-11, we encountered Barcelona every year, and he was completely helpless. Even if you block all lines and force him to use the reverse foot... even luck is on his side. The whole team system creates the best environment for him, Alves, who frequently plugs in the right side to restrain the defense, and Iniesta in the middle. It's really powerful."

The best team you have ever played for?

Nasri: "It should be Manchester City in the 2015-2016 season. Although it ended in the semi-finals like the Gunners' period, this team has more outstanding personal talent and more balanced defense. The strongest in the team? Yaya Toure, he can do everything."

The most influential coach?

Nasri: "Wenger, a person as precious as gold. He fulfilled all his promises, helped me grow, was good at psychological counseling, and could stimulate the potential of players. From a human point of view, he is extraordinary. Although he worked with Guardiola for a short time, his tactical attainments are genius and could have been on the list."

The most unforgettable tactical arrangement?

Nasri: "The first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals in 2-2 in 2009-10. It was a lucky draw at halftime. During the break, Wenger admitted for the first time: 'We can do nothing, they are indeed better'. But he continued: 'Now I only ask you to hold on for another 15 minutes, and then you can turn the situation around because their physical fitness will collapse'. Unfortunately, after 15 minutes, he fell behind 0-2. But he made a accurate judgment - Barcelona was indeed exhausted after 60 minutes, and we finally tied tenaciously."

With the most intense conflict?

Nasri: "Before the second leg of the Champions League quarter-finals of Villarreal 1-1 on April 7, 2009, a fist conflict broke out in the locker room, and I will not be named. In the end, the coach pulled the two sides to guide the situation... This kind of thing will inevitably happen. Occasional outbreaks can release pressure and let everyone get back on track."