Arsenal Are Slowly Building Momentum in the Champions League
Arsenal returned to the Champions League last term but weren't up to par. This time, however, they’re not just here to make up the numbers. Mikel Arteta’s side are slowly but surely building momentum, laying the foundations for sustained success on the European stage.
Unlike their status as Premier League contenders, Arsenal are still relatively inexperienced in this competition, but recent performances signal that they are growing into their role as a serious force.
Their hard-fought 2-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday night was more than just three points; it was a statement of intent from a team steadily gaining confidence. Arsenal’s squad has clearly matured since last season’s campaign, where they reached the quarter-finals before being edged out by Bayern Munich.
Now, the Gunners are learning how to handle the unique pressure and intensity of European football, and they are becoming a more balanced, resilient outfit in the process.
Establishing Control Early On
Against PSG, Arsenal displayed a growing ability to impose their will on a game, particularly in the first half. The side started the match with purpose and aggression, pressing PSG high up the pitch and controlling possession.
Kai Havertz opened the scoring in the 20th minute, capitalising on a well-worked attack that demonstrated Arsenal’s improved link-up play in the final third as the German nodded in a pinpoint cross from Leandro Trossard to give the hosts a well-earned lead. Moments later, Bukayo Saka doubled the lead, showing the fluidity and precision that Arteta’s men have become known for.
For a team still developing its identity in Europe, this first-half performance was impressive. It showcased their ability to play on the front foot, even against a team with European pedigree like PSG, although the French side have their issues. But it also raised the stakes: could Arsenal maintain this intensity, or would they crumble under pressure in the second half?
Arteta has clearly drilled his players to be disciplined without the ball, something that was evident as they kept PSG at bay. It wasn’t just about shutting down the opposition; Arsenal also demonstrated patience, biding their time to regain control of the game. This defensive solidity, combined with a few late counter-attacks, ensured that Arsenal closed out the match with relative comfort.
Mikel Merino’s Debut: A New Chapter Begins
Amidst the action, the appearance of Mikel Merino marked a significant moment. The midfielder, sidelined with a shoulder injury since joining from Real Sociedad, made his much-anticipated debut in the second half. Though his impact was limited in terms of direct involvement, his introduction highlights Arsenal’s depth, a key factor as they navigate the challenges of domestic and European competition.
The excitement surrounding Merino’s debut is a reminder of how far Arsenal has come in building a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts. His addition to the team provides more flexibility for Arteta, particularly in midfield, where his tactical awareness and passing range could prove invaluable in upcoming fixtures. He holds the 5th spot among the top 9 Most Valuable Spanish Midfielders Today.
Learning, Growing, and Moving Forward
This victory over PSG wasn’t perfect, but it was a sign of progress. Arsenal are no longer just hopeful participants in the Champions League; they are competitors. Arteta’s men are steadily learning the ropes of European competition, gaining valuable experience with each passing match.
The mental fortitude they displayed, especially when defending their lead in the second half, suggests that they’re growing into a team that can handle the rigours of the Champions League.
With every victory, they inch closer to becoming true European contenders. While they may still be in the early stages of their journey, performances like this show they’re on the right track.
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