Mikel Arteta delivers six-word response to Xabi Alonso Arsenal question ahead of Bayern Munich

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has refused to answer whether he consulted Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso before Tuesday's Champions League clash against Bayern Munich. The Gunners take on the reigning German champions in their quarter-final first-leg match at the Emirates Stadium.

Bayern's status as undisputed champions of Germany has been disrupted this season, with Alonso's Leverkusen on the verge of a first Bundesliga title. Former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder Alonso has masterminded a remarkable campaign that has seen his Bayer team go unbeaten all season as they chase an unlikely league, cup and Europa League treble.

The club will secure the German top-flight title on Sunday with a win over Werder Bremen at home. Alonso's side have enjoyed success against Bayern this season, with a draw at the Allianz Arena before a convincing 3-0 win at home in February.

And when asked if he had spoken to Xabi Alonso about how to beat Bayern Munich, Arsenal's manager remained coy.

«I'm not going to answer that,» he said in his pre-match conference ahead of Tuesday's fixture. Arsenal have never progressed in a European knockout tie against Bayern before, but the form of both sides has led many to suggest that the Gunners are favourites to go through.

Thomas Tuchel's team have lost their last two matches as they trail Leverkusen by 16 points in the Bundesliga. They were also knocked out of the German Cup by third-division side Saarbrucken earlier this season amid a disappointing campaign so far.

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In contrast, Arsenal are unbeaten in all