Mikel Arteta praised Arsenal's performance as exceptional after their 3-1 victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League. Jurrien Timber scored first with a header from Bukayo Saka's corner, but Bayern equalised through Lennart Karl. Arsenal excelled in the second half, with substitutes Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli making significant impacts, aided by a mistake from Manuel Neuer.
Arteta expressed his satisfaction with the team's overall performance and dominance during the match. "The thing that pleased me most is probably the overall performance and the way we dominated the game," he said to TNT Sports. He noted that adapting to Bayern's quality was crucial, highlighting individual excellence among his players.
Bayern had remained
unbeaten this season until Arsenal exposed their weaknesses, particularly through set-pieces. Arsenal have scored 10 goals from corners across all competitions this season, leading Europe's top five leagues. In total, they have netted 17 set-piece goals, including penalties, more than any other Premier League team in 2025-26.
When asked about their set-piece success, Arteta commented: "Well in every phase of play we try to score. It's the ability a team needs, to be a danger, to be very efficient. " This efficiency has been a key factor in Arsenal's impressive performances this season.
ANOTHER BIG EUROPEAN WIN IN THE BOOKS pic.twitter.com/8bEDZ1BcEL Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 26, 2025
Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli have faced injury challenges this season. However, Madueke ended a 17-game goal drought by scoring his first for Arsenal. Meanwhile, Martinelli has scored in all four of his Champions League appearances this term. Arteta emphasised their importance: "It's very important to have them back and available. The impact the players are showing is remarkable. "
Declan Rice was named Player of the Match for his dynamic midfield performance. He created three chances and completed the most final-third passes (15) among Arsenal players. Rice believes this season feels different due to numerous leaders within the team but stressed focusing on one game at a time.
Maintaining Focus Amid Success
Despite sitting atop the league phase with five wins from five games and being favourites for the trophy in May, Arteta urged caution: "We're still so far away; we have a really good record so far. We have to enjoy tonight because tomorrow we have to prepare to go to [Chelsea on Sunday]. "
Rice echoed Arteta's sentiments about staying grounded while acknowledging Bayern Munich's strength: "Look at Bayern Munich this season; they have been the best team in Europe. " He described it as possibly their toughest tactical challenge yet but praised Arsenal's outstanding second-half performance.
The victory against Bayern Munich marked a special European night for Arsenal as they continue their pursuit of major silverware this season.
