The Gunners will miss their pivotal captain against the European champions, who have an advantage after drawing 2-2 in London last week.

"He [Nasri] will of course be important because he will lead our game," said Wenger in Arsenal's official site.

“I would love Cesc to be there 100 per cent. But we have no choice, we have to compensate a little bit.

"I have to find a good balance in the side to make life difficult for Barcelona. But of course Nasri is one of the players who can create."

In addition to Fabregas, Arsenal miss a host of key players including William Gallas, Andrei Arshavin and Robin van Persie.

Nasri scoring a wonder goal against Porto