Despite Arsenal's impressive 3-1 victory over Bayern Munich in their recent Champions League clash, manager Mikel Arteta insisted that the German side remains the "best team in Europe". The Gunners secured a statement win at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday, with second-half goals from substitutes Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli sealing the victory.
Arsenal followed up their dominant north London derby win against Tottenham with another strong performance against Bayern. The victory puts Arsenal at the top of their Champions League group, three points ahead after a dominant second-half display against the six-time European champions.
Arteta, while celebrating the win, maintained his high regard for Bayern Munich. "I have to congratulate my players, because they had an incredible game against, in my opinion, the best team in Europe," Arteta stated. He added, "Today is another massive victory. But that's it. Tomorrow we'll focus on Stamford Bridge".
The match saw Jurrien Timber head Arsenal into the lead from a Bukayo Saka corner. Bayern's 17-year-old midfielder, Lennart Karl, equalized, marking the first goal Arsenal have conceded in the competition this season. However, Arsenal's substitutes proved decisive, with Madueke scoring his first goal for the club and Martinelli capitalizing on a mistake from Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to extend Arsenal's lead.
Arteta refrained from commenting on Arsenal's chances of winning the Champions League this season. Midfielder Declan Rice echoed Arteta's sentiments regarding Bayern's strength, acknowledging the tactical challenge they posed. "Look at Bayern Munich this season, they have been the best team in Europe," Rice said. "This was probably the toughest game tactically we have played this season. The way they work it is so, so good". He also lauded Arsenal's adaptability, noting, "We went man to man with them in the second half and I thought tonight we were outstanding".
Despite acknowledging Bayern's quality, Arteta praised his Arsenal side as "exceptional" after the win. The victory reflects Arsenal's strong form, as they currently hold a six-point lead at the top of the Premier League and are in a commanding position in their Champions League group.
