Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich has delivered a surprising verdict following his team's 3-1 defeat to Arsenal, claiming the Gunners were not the most difficult side the German champions have faced in this season's Champions League.
A Night of Champions League Drama
The highly anticipated clash at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night was billed as a showdown between two of Europe's elite. Arsenal, currently leading the Premier League, secured a monumental victory with goals from Jurrien Timber, Noni Madueke, and Gabriel Martinelli. Despite this impressive performance against the Bundesliga giants, Kimmich, who played 81 minutes in midfield, offered a contrasting perspective on the challenge Mikel Arteta's team presented.
Kimmich's Controversial Comparison
When asked if Arsenal was the best team Bayern had encountered this campaign, the German international was unequivocal. "No, I don't think so," Kimmich stated. "I think PSG was the most difficult. Mainly because of their way of playing."
He went on to draw a sharp distinction between the playing philosophies of Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain, whom Bayern had narrowly defeated 2-1 in a previous group stage match. "Arsenal is completely different," Kimmich continued. "They rely on set-pieces. They love to play long balls. They love to fight for the second balls. Against PSG it was a completely different game. It was more of a football match."
In a remark that is sure to provoke discussion, Kimmich suggested the match against Arsenal was less about pure football. "Today it wasn't so much about football," he claimed. "It was more about game management and duels. Arsenal did that very well tonight. Their victory was deserved, but we have to learn from this game."
Arteta's Philosophy on Set-Piece Prowess
Kimmich's comments on Arsenal's reliance on set-pieces are not without foundation. The North London club has developed a formidable reputation from dead-ball situations, a point proven when Jurrien Timber powered in a header from a corner during the memorable victory.
Manager Mikel Arteta has previously championed this aspect of his team's play. Before the Bayern match, he had even joked about being "disgusted" that his team didn't score from a counter-attack in their 4-1 North London derby win over Tottenham. He firmly believes set-pieces hold equal value to open-play goals.
"For me, it has the same value (as open-play goals)," Arteta asserted. "It doesn't change anything. It is part of the game. In relation to the opponent, with what you are playing against and how they defend, we have to be very efficient in all departments. Being the best in everything we do, that is the goal."
While Kimmich conceded that Arsenal deserved their victory, his analysis provides a fascinating insight into how Bayern Munich perceived their opponents, prioritising tactical football over what they viewed as a more physical, direct approach from the English league leaders.
