Ahead of a highly anticipated Champions League showdown, Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane has delivered his verdict on Arsenal, insisting the current Gunners side is a far cry from the team the German giants have dominated in previous seasons.
Kane's Cautious Assessment of a Revitalised Arsenal
The England captain acknowledged Bayern's intimidating historical record against the north London club, but was quick to highlight the significant development Mikel Arteta's squad has undergone. Both teams are unbeaten in this season's Champions League, sitting first and second in the league phase after four games each.
However, the historical data makes for grim reading for Arsenal fans. Bayern have won four of the last five encounters, humiliating the Gunners by scoring five goals on three separate occasions. Their most recent triumph was a victory over two legs in the 2024 quarter-finals.
Kane himself has been a central figure in this one-sided rivalry. The former Tottenham striker is the most prolific visiting player in the history of the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal, having scored six goals there. Overall, he boasts an impressive 15 goals in 21 appearances against the Gunners.
Experience and Defensive Solidity: The Arsenal Evolution
When asked to pinpoint the differences in Arsenal since their last meeting two seasons ago, Kane pointed to a matured, more robust unit. "They've become more solid, they have more experience but they play similarly to how they did back then," the 32-year-old stated.
He elaborated further, emphasising their structural improvements. "Defensively, their structure is better. They've gained experience in the Champions League, which has made them better and helped them grow. That's why they're in the position they're in right now."
Kane framed the upcoming match as the ultimate benchmark, relishing the challenge. "It will be a good test for us tomorrow. Two of the best teams in the world will be going at each other, and we're looking forward to this game. It will be a good opportunity to test ourselves."
Arteta's Reality Check on European Pedigree
In a contrasting tone, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta provided a sobering perspective on his team's status compared to European heavyweights like Bayern. He immediately drew a distinction based on historical success, or the lack thereof for the Gunners.
While Vincent Kompany's Bayern have won the European Cup six times, Arsenal have never lifted the trophy. When questioned if his team could be considered among Europe's elite, Arteta was unequivocal.
"If you talk about performances and consistency, hopefully yes," he conceded. "But to consider that in terms of the trophies at that level, I mean, we have never won the Champions League in our history, and Bayern Munich have won it six times. So, we are not there. (If) we compare with Real Madrid, they're (in) a different universe."
This sets the stage for a fascinating tactical battle at the Emirates, where a transformed Arsenal will look to finally rewrite a painful chapter in their history against a European giant.
