Champions Bayern Munich were also given a hard draw as they plucked Arsenal for the second year in a row at this stage.
For the English pair, who both finished second in their groups, it was yet again a harsh lesson in the importance of winning the group.
Manchester United and Chelsea, both group winners, were given far more favourable draws against Olympiakos and Galatasaray respectively.
In fairness to Arsenal and City, they did have the toughest possible groups facing one each of last season's finalists.
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"I think Barcelona will be very concerned that they have drawn us. They are not the team of two years ago," he said.
But Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino insisted neither side would be delighted with the draw.
"City will not have wanted to play against Barcelona either," he said.