Arteta praised the duel against Bayern as fascinating
At the Allianz Arena, under the lights that illuminate the Arena, Mikel Arteta stopped at the end of the match to applaud Arsenal fans who were singing nonstop. Arteta expressed his satisfaction as the noise from the stands blended with the echo of the whistle.
A draw that surprised both teams
The match ended 2‑2, corresponding to the third matchday of the Champions League group stage. The Basque coach described the duel as “What a match!” and said it had been one of the highest levels his team had played at, both because of the opponent’s quality and their own performance.
According to the report by Martin Meissner and Jordi Archs for International Football, Arteta explained that Arsenal started very well, but lost Bukayo Saka, who was having a great game. “We had to adapt to that situation,” he said, adding that his side was dominant and deserved the first goal.
The manager also recalled that Bayern scored a goal and that the second half was very evenly matched, although the opponent may have started slightly better. After a penalty, Arsenal reacted and secured the draw, demonstrating the quality and spirit of the team.
Regarding Saka’s injury, Arteta admitted that the doctors “are a little worried” and that a withdrawal due to acute pain is never good news, so we will have to wait to learn his condition.
Arsenal brace for Saka's possible two‑month absence after Bayern clash
The coach valued the draw, saying that what they had achieved was remarkable, as he had seen Bayern, in the last three years, usually overwhelm their opponents with many goals. “I value it highly and I am fully aware of what the boys have done tonight,” he concluded.
Confessions and pre‑match context
In comments before the match, Arteta confessed that he still had not gotten over the loss in last season’s Champions League final, and that feeling still fuels the team’s motivation. “I tried, but I didn’t achieve it,” he admitted, adding that the fire still burns within the group.
Bayern arrived in Munich after a 6‑1 victory over RB Leipzig, with Luis Díaz completing a hat‑trick. However, the German side did not have Michael Olise suspended, Jamal Musiala injured, Manuel Neuer still doubtful due to a foot problem, and Joshua Kimmich absent because of a family loss.
Arsenal, for their part, had secured a late win thanks to a goal from Noni Madueke against Nottingham Forest, although they showed difficulty replicating the dominance of their 3‑0 triumph over Lille.
Arsenal brace for Saka's eight week lay‑off as Arteta rejects burnout
On the other hand, Inter added their first win with ten points, according to another fragment of the available information.
The draw leaves both teams with the feeling of having tested their level against an elite opponent, as the Champions League group stage progresses and every point becomes crucial for qualification.