Marseille's Steve Mandanda issues Arsenal warning

Marseille goalkeeper Steve Mandanda has told Arsenal that they will have to treat every Champions League group stage match as a cup final if they are to progress to the next round.

The two sides meet at the Stade Velodrome on Wednesday and make up half of what is arguably the toughest group of the draw alongside 2013 finalists Borussia Dortmund and Serie A leaders Napoli.

Mandanda believes that Les Phoceens must target Olivier Giroud and Mesut Ozil if they are to get a result against the Gunners.

"This Champions League group is terrific," Mandanda told reporters. "For any club to progress, every game must be like a final and you have to win your home games. Unless you do that, you have no chance.

"Giroud is in sensational form. We have to stop them from scoring and creating danger but that will not be easy. They look a very strong team.

"Now Ozil has increased Arsenal's level in attack. His arrival has taken Arsenal to another level and he is perfect for the style of football and play that [Arsene] Wenger likes. I never expected Real Madrid to allow him to leave."

The two teams meet in France on Wednesday.