Mikel Arteta has provocatively labelled Bayern Munich the 'best team in Europe' just moments after his Arsenal side delivered a commanding 3-1 victory over the German giants in a heavyweight Champions League clash at the Emirates.
Second-Half Surge Seals Statement Victory
In a match that lived up to its blockbuster billing, Arsenal confirmed their status as serious continental contenders with a devastating second-half display. The Premier League leaders broke the deadlock through a Jurrien Timber header, but found themselves pegged back before the interval. Bayern's 17-year-old sensation, Lennart Karl, capitalised to score the first goal Arsenal have conceded in this season's competition.
The game's momentum shifted decisively after the break. The introduction of Noni Madueke, returning from a two-month knee injury, proved inspired as he netted his first goal for the club to restore Arsenal's lead. The victory was sealed when fellow substitute Gabriel Martinelli pounced on a rare error from veteran Bayern keeper Manuel Neuer. The result stretches Arsenal's perfect record in the Champions League to five wins from five matches.
Arteta's Praise for the Opposition
Despite the comprehensive nature of the win, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was quick to lavish praise on the defeated opponents. "I have to praise our players because I think they had an incredible match against, in my opinion, the best team in Europe," Arteta stated in his post-match press conference.
He emphasised the collective effort, adding, "Individually, we were immense to resolve all the challenges that these teams bring to the table." The manager did, however, sound a note of caution, recognising that this is "just the beginning" in their quest for European glory, while praising the incredible energy transmitted by both his team and the home supporters.
A Tough Night for Kane and Kompany
The match marked a frustrating return to North London for former Tottenham striker Harry Kane. The England captain was kept quiet throughout the evening, failing to register a single shot on goal against a disciplined Arsenal defence.
Reflecting on the loss with TNT Sports, Kane admitted, "It was a tough game, which is kind of what we expected... Second half we didn’t quite have the same energy or intensity and we lost too many duels." He sought to downplay the significance of Bayern's first defeat of the season, stating the team would learn from the experience.
Bayern boss Vincent Kompany conceded that Arsenal were the better side, telling reporters, "First of all I have to congratulate Arsenal. It was a deserved win for them. They came out with more purpose and sharpness in the second half."
The victory completes an impressive week for the Gunners, sandwiched between a 4-1 derby demolition of Tottenham and an upcoming crucial trip to second-placed Chelsea, further cementing their credentials both domestically and in Europe.
