What a week it was! Fresh off a predicted win against Spurs, we dove straight into European action against Bayern Munich. 💥 The Bayern Munich Thriller & Arteta's Mentality The Big Question: Was playing a full-strength side against Bayern a mistake, potentially costing us freshness for the league, or a crucial display of intent? Rich's Take: The game was technically stunning and end-to-end, but he understands the dilemma. However, given Arsenal's history of heavy defeats to Bayern, Arteta's "mentality is" approach meant avoiding a loss and proving we belong among the European elite. Marc's View: He agrees with the "go hell for leather" approach. While it may have impacted the Chelsea game (via loss of Trossard, etc.), building a winning culture means showing the team—and Europe—how good they are. A New Level: The first half was hailed as one of the highest-quality halves of football ever seen by the hosts, demonstrating how far Arteta has brought the team. Unlike the Wenger era's struggles in Europe, Arsenal is now "firmly at that top table." Harry Kane Tactic: Arsenal's defence handled Kane's deep-dropping runs effectively, with Declan Rice's tireless work rate being highlighted as a standout performance. The Second Half Masterclass: The second half was called the "best any Arsenal team has ever played," with the team smothering Bayern and elevating their game. 🔄 Substitutions and Squad Depth Impact Subs: The quality of substitutions—including Martinelli and Madueke—making an immediate impact was a massive difference from previous seasons, validating the recent squad building. Martinelli Magic: Martinelli's goal was a "Martinelli special," involving winning the ball, running like the clappers, and slotting it past a panicking Manuel Neuer. Saka's Vision: Saka's evolving game was praised, particularly his vision and execution of passes, demonstrating "a lot of tools in his locker." 🤕 The Chelsea Scramble & Injury Woes The Saliba Blow: The news of Saliba's injury just before the Chelsea game was a major pre-match shocker, raising questions about the intensity of Arteta's training sessions between big games. Centre-Back Partnership: The new pairing of Mosquera and Hincapié stepped in, displaying good technical ability but lacking the established "aura of authority" and understanding of Saliba/Gabriel. Mosquera's passing stats (95% completion) were noted despite a feeling of insecurity in the backline. Chelsea's Game Plan: Chelsea's tactic was clear: turn it into a war with a physical, ill-disciplined approach, which ultimately "f***ed it" for them due to a lack of control and poor acting following fouls. Caicedo Red Card: Caicedo's red card challenge was a "cast iron" red, with his immediate feigned injury betraying his guilt. 🎯 Arsenal's Tactical & Mental Resilience Marino's Improvement: While often criticised, Marino's goal contribution was acknowledged, with the player's numbers showing his effectiveness, even if his midfield decision-making can be questionable. The Narrative: There was frustration with the media narrative praising Chelsea's "fantastic" 10-man performance compared to a very different narrative when Arsenal had a similar advantage against City last season. Odegaard's Return: The introduction of Odegaard helped Arsenal dictate the tempo and push Chelsea back, showing his importance despite ongoing criticism. Missed Opportunity for Chelsea: Marc argued Chelsea missed their "best opportunity" to gain ground on Arsenal, as their tactical success in the first half was undermined by their own ill-discipline and booting people up in the air. 📈 Looking Ahead to December Table Position: Arsenal ends November—traditionally a "honking month"—in great shape: five points clear of City and six points clear of Chelsea, a "genuine lead." Cavalry Returning: Saliba, Trossard, and Gabriel Jesus are all close to returning, which will be a massive boost. Havertz's Importance: The return of Havertz could be huge, especially against high-pressing teams like Bayern or PSG, where his aerial ability will offer a vital long-ball outlet over the press. Next Up: Brentford: There's talk of rotation, especially for the upcoming Champions League dead rubber, but caution is advised for the tricky Brentford game.
Dec 8 202535 min