A new Arsenal under construction
Arsenal are always a tough rival. Although the Gunners haven't managed to lift the Premier League since the 2003/04 season, they've always been a historically competitive side and are the current Europa League runners-up.
Arsene Wenger, a coach who stood out for his ability to capture and nurture young talent, and to apply an offensive mentality in matches, left the club where he had been since 1996. With the Frenchman, the north Londoners reached the Champions League final in 2006, losing to Barça.
All change with Unai Emery
In the summer of 2018, 'Le Professeur,' as they called Wenger in the media, handed the reins to Unai Emery, the Spanish coach arriving at the Emirates Stadium from Paris Sant Germain. Emery had a good track record at teams such as Sevilla, where he won three consecutive Europa Leagues.
Unai Emery's teams stand out for being aggressive, well-organised defensively, quick on the counter attack and who play with character. Against Emery, Barça have won 15, draw six and lost two of the 23 official matches played.
Three signings for the new season
The Gunners have secured three new signings so far this summer. The first of them was Brazil's 18-year-old Gabriel Martinelli, from Ituano of Brazil's Serie D. He was one of the most prominent players in the Paulista Championship and was named player of the competition.
Then came Dani Ceballos from Real Madrid, loaned by Los Blancos, followed by Nicolas Pépé, an electric striker who could make his debut at the Camp Nou. Arsenal have also closed a deal for William Saliba, a player who will continue playing with Saint-Étienne for another season.
Aubameyang and Lacazette, double trouble
50 goals between them last year in all competitions; Aubameyang scored 31 and Lacazette, 19. Thus, they became one of the most dangerous attacking duos in Europe. Their contribution to the team goes beyond goals, however, since last year the Frenchman provided 10 French assists with seven more coming from the Gabonese.
Aubameyang and Lacazette have a great connection on the pitch, based on friendship. The French attacker explained in an interview with Sky Sports. "We laugh together, we are friends. But we work and train hard to be able to enjoy football together."
The strikers have never faced Barça, however, so in the Gamper 2019, the Blaugrana defenders will have to be at their best to repel the attacks of this lethal pair.