Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich has sparked controversy by claiming Arsenal weren't the most difficult opponents his team has faced in this season's Champions League campaign, despite the German champions suffering a 3-1 defeat at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night.
Post-Match Comments Stir Debate
The German international, who featured for 81 minutes in the crucial quarter-final clash, made the surprising admission during post-match interviews. When directly questioned about whether Mikel Arteta's side represented the toughest challenge Bayern had encountered in Europe this season, Kimmich responded unequivocally.
'No, I don't think so,' Kimmich stated. 'I think PSG was the toughest one. Especially the way they play.'
His comments came despite Arsenal delivering a commanding performance that saw goals from Jurrien Timber, Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli secure a memorable victory for the Premier League leaders.
Contrasting Styles and Priorities
Kimmich elaborated on his assessment by drawing clear distinctions between Arsenal's approach and that of Paris Saint-Germain, whom Bayern defeated 2-1 in the previous round.
'Arsenal is completely different,' the 29-year-old explained. 'They rely on set pieces. They love to play long balls. They love to fight for second balls. It was a completely different game against PSG. It was more of a football game.'
The midfielder suggested that Arsenal's focus extended beyond pure footballing quality, noting: 'Today was not so much about football. It was more about game management and duels. Arsenal did this really well tonight. Their win was well deserved but we have to learn from this game.'
Arteta's Set Piece Philosophy
Kimmich's observations about Arsenal's set piece proficiency align with the North London club's demonstrated strengths this season. Timber's opening goal indeed came from a well-worked corner routine, highlighting an area where the Gunners have excelled under Arteta's management.
Interestingly, the Arsenal manager had previously emphasised the importance of dead-ball situations, joking after Sunday's 4-1 north London derby victory over Tottenham that he was 'upset' his team hadn't scored from a set piece in that match.
'For me, it is the same value (as open play goals),' Arteta stated regarding set pieces. 'It doesn't change anything. It is part of the game. In relation to your opposition, that you are playing and how they defend, we have to be very efficient in all departments. Being our best at everything we do, that is the aim.'
Despite Kimmich's assessment, the result leaves Arsenal sitting comfortably at the summit of both the Premier League and their Champions League group, while Bayern face increasing pressure to improve their European performances following this disappointing defeat in London.
