Club legend insists “something is different” this season as Arteta’s tactical changes and squad depth fuel a convincing victory.
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry delivered a powerful endorsement of his former club, labeling them the “most solid team in Europe” after a statement 3-1 Champions League victory over Bayern Munich that has the football world taking notice.
In a thrilling match at a raucous Emirates Stadium, Arsenal showcased a resilience and tactical maturity that has become their trademark under Mikel Arteta. After a first half that saw Jurrien Timber’s opener canceled out by a fine Bayern goal from Lennart Karl, the Gunners dug deep.
The victory was sealed by a masterstroke from the bench. Arteta’s substitutes made the decisive impact, with Riccardo Calafiori setting up fellow sub Noni Madueke to restore the lead before Gabriel Martinelli capitalized on a Bayern mistake to round the goalkeeper and slot home a clinching third.
Speaking on CBS Sports, Henry could not hide his belief that a corner has been turned. “There’s something different this year, there’s something different,” he said, addressing man-of-the-match Declan Rice. “It’s not the same as before. Before, I used to say that Arsenal can win because I’m a fan. Now I say it without my Arsenal hat on.”
Henry pointed to a newfound pragmatism as the foundation of their success. “They play, Arsenal, but they don’t overplay when they’re in their own half,” he explained. “They tend to go long when they know that mistakes can happen… I would like to say they’re the most solid team in Europe at the moment.”
This solidity is reflected in the stats; Arsenal have conceded just one goal in the Champions League this season, a stark contrast to the teams of Arsene Wenger’s era, which were often criticized for a lack of defensive steel.
The sentiment was echoed by fellow pundit Jamie Carragher, who agreed, “Yeah, Arsenal are the best team in Europe right now. The only thing… is whether they can still be the best team in Europe by May. There’s a long way to go but no one can get near them right now.”
For now, the victory—their first over Bayern since 2015—propels Arsenal three points clear at the top of their group, fueling belief that this season, something truly is different.
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