Worst Case Scenario:Â Barcelona, Shakhtar Donetsk, Roma
It may spell some seriously tasty ties between some of Europe’s top teams, but the chances of a group like this are just as realistic.
Arsenal could find themselves up against the current holders of the Champions League, Barcelona, and things might get even tougher with trips to Roma and Shakhtar Donetsk.
And although that will not faze manager Arsene Wenger, the Gunners could find themselves struggling big time to make it to a Champions League final.
1 – Barcelona (Spain)
A side that need very little introduction to us Arsenal fans, with the Spanish club arguably standing as the best side in the world following their 2014/15 domination.
As well as bringing home the Champions League trophy after a 3-1 victory over Juventus in last years final, Barca also managed to scoop the La Liga, Spanish Cup and most recently the European Super Cup.
Despite losing Pedro to Chelsea this summer, Luis Enrique’s side are packed with quality in an attacking trio of Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi and Neymar.
And if that wasn’t enough to deal with, you then have to break down the defensive duo of Gerard Pique and Sergio Busquets, before slotting past in-form goalkeeper Marc Ter-Stergen.
There’s no doubt that Barcelona look like the toughest side to beat this season, but if Wenger adds to his squad then there’s every chance the Gunners can compete.
2 – Shakhtar Donetsk (Ukraine)
Despite finishing second in the league this season, Shakhtar appear in the tournament yet again, and this time they mean business.
Arsenal are no strangers to the Ukranian side, and Arsene Wenger will know what to expect when heading to the 52,00 seater stadium.
All-time top goalscorer for the club is Luiz Adriano, and the striker is just as good now as he was when he joined the club back in 2007.
The Gunners won’t be too worried about this one, but Shakhtar have always had surprise factor up their sleeve, and are capable of pulling off a hard-fought result.
3 – Roma (Italy)
They may be seeded in the lowest of the group stage pots, but there is nothing about Roma that suggests this will be an easy fixture.
The Serie A side finished second in the league in 2014/15, and with the likes of Francesco Totti leading their midfield line they are a club that oozes class.
Premier League loanee, Edin Dzecko is currently enjoying a loan spell with the Italian giants, and will be available to play in the tournament after not playing a Champions League fixture with Manchester City this season.
As well as the strikers inclusion, Roma have been busy in the transfer window and picked up Chelsea flop, Mohammed Salah, who is still capable of pulling off some silky trickery.
However, Rudi Garcia’s are a beatable team and Arsenal will ultimately pose too much attacking flair for an otherwise damaged defence.
The Gunners new found experience of Petr Cech and Alexis Sanchez will ensure they don’t fall victim to an intimidating crowd, who will make it just as tough for the English club to pick up and points.
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