If Steve McClaren is going to restore his reputation as a manager he is going to have to do it the hard way after FC Twente were drawn to play Arsenal in the Champions League third qualifying round.

The former England head coach, who lost his job after failing to qualify for Euro 2008, moved to the Dutch club six weeks ago to broaden his horizons, but he will face familiar and formidable opponents when Arsenal travel to Holland on August 12 or 13 and in the return leg at the Emirates Stadium two weeks later.

“I expected one of the English teams,” McClaren said. “I think fate deals you certain cards and it has dealt us this draw. It will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Arsenal will be confident of victory against a team who finished fourth in the Dutch first division last season and who qualified for the Champions League for the first time by beating Ajax in a play-off.

Arsène Wenger, who was heartened yesterday by the news that Emmanuel Adebayor, the striker, has agreed to sign a new four-year contract, has plenty of respect for the former Middlesbrough manager. “Steve McClaren will get his team organised and make it difficult for us,” the Arsenal manager said. “It will be a good opportunity for him to show his quality. He is at the stage of his career where he can show that he can bounce back.”

Liverpool will fancy their chances of progress into the lucrative group stage after they were drawn against Standard Liège, who won the title in Belgium for the first time in 25 years, last season. “People may say it is a kind draw, but we will treat them with respect,” Rafael Benítez, the Liverpool manager, said. “Overall, though, it is a good draw and we are happy.” Liverpool also have the advantage of playing the second leg at home, on August 26 or 27.