Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta steered clear of talking about Xabi Alonso this week.

The Spaniard was once again asked if he talked to his countryman and friend about facing off against Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter final.

The German giants were beaten to the Bundesliga by Alonso and his Bayer Leverkusen team this season.

Arteta stated on Alonso: “First of all, big congratulations to Xabi and Granit, because it was a big day for him as well, so I'm happy for them and very impressed with what they've done.

“Yes, I congratulated him because we are good friends and because I'm really happy for him, but that's a different story.

“We don't face this competition regularly, and it's a Champions League tie, so the game is very different."