COUNTDOWN: Arsenal vs. Barcelona (Today at 2:45 PM EST)

As Arsenal get ready to host Barcelona today at Emirates Stadium, the question of whether Samir Nasri plays, after his unexpected recovery from a hamstring strain, remains up in the air. Manager Arsene Wenger has yet to confirm Nasri's status.

The French midfielder was first declared as inactive for the matchup, but Wenger recently declared him to be a strong possibility, and is a game-time decision.

However, Nasri commented on Twitter on Tuesday: "Hi tweeps good session today im fully fit and back with the squad looking forward to it."

Meanwhile, Tomas Rosicky is available for the Gunners after suffering a groin injury. Emmanuel Eboue is expected to replace Bacary Sagna, who won't be suited up due to suspension. Midfielders Abou Diaby and Denilson remain sidelined with injuries.

For Barcelona, star central defender Carlos Puyol will be inactive, as will bench player Jeffren. Sergio Busquets, Pedro, and Eric Abidal are rested and ready to go for Pep Guardiola after sitting against Sporting.

The Catalans defeated the Gunners last year in the quarter-finals, so now with the two sides facing each other in the Round of 16, Arsenal have a chance to make up for the embarrassing defeat to the Catalans at Camp Nou.

"We are highly motivated to show we are a different team today," Wenger said of today's first leg.

"We are now a stronger team because we have attitude and I have not seen many teams with such consistent focus every day."

Pep Guardiola is not taking Arsenal lightly despite having perhaps the best club in the world.

"I'm worried about the game that Arsenal play, he said. Walcott has got pace, Wenger is an incredible coach and Van Persie is a very mobile player.

"They are strong in certain areas but also have weaknesses. I'm going to tell my players to attack Arsenal."

The Catalans are led by 2010 FIFA Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi. The superstar has been in fine form in recent weeks, and is expected to be a key component in Barcelona's attack. The last time Arsenal and Barcelona faced off, Messi scored four goals.

The second leg will be played at Camp Nou on March 8.