Bola.net – Mikel Arteta could not hide his delight at Arsenal’s return to the Champions League as a beautiful evening. The coach also admitted that he felt emotional during the match against PSV Eindhoven.
The Gunners reaped a positive note in the inaugural Group B League C 2023/24 Champions League match against PSV. Playing at the Emirates Stadium, Thursday (21/9/2023) early morning WIB, they won with a score of 4-0.
Arsenal’s winning goals were scored by Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Jesus, while Martin Odegaard added a brilliant fourth in the second half.
Arsenal, who have picked up 13 points from their opening five Premier League games, next travel to Lens next week, while PSV will have to try to right some wrongs at home to Sevilla.
Check out Arteta’s comments below.
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Happy to be back in the Champions League
The last time Arsenal played in the Champions League they suffered a crushing 10-2 aggregate defeat at the hands of Bayern Munich, since then their position in the top four of the Premier League has become a fading memory.
“This is a beautiful evening after a long time,” said Arteta after the match.
“We want to put in the right performance to win the game. It’s great to see the atmosphere and music of the Champions League.
“Everyone was a little emotional earlier. We came out in two halves today and I thought we were outstanding. I think that was the difference today.”
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Very Emotional
Arteta even got a little teary-eyed reflecting on Arsenal’s comeback in the most elite club tournament in Europe. For him, playing in the Champions League is a matter of pride.
“I am [emosional], yeah. I’m very excited about it. I wanted to control myself and not show it too much, but I was very excited.
“I think we channeled the energy and emotion in the right way. Talk about enjoyment. Obviously we have to compete at this level, but you have to enjoy it because I think in the end that’s what will be remembered.”
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Praise the Players
Arsenal could have easily won by a bigger score but squandered several chances after going 3-0 up in the 38th minute, leaving Arteta pleased with their ferocity but still wanting more.
“In the penalty box we were exceptional today, we were ruthless, we took our chances,” he said.
“It’s amazing. And also we can do a lot more. Maybe as managers we see more of that than any other part.
“Especially from room to room, there are some things we could have done better. That’s what you have to do every day.
“You have to be really analytical to try to improve. At the same time, credit to the players, for playing the way they played in certain moments and scoring four goals in the Champions League against a team that hasn’t lost all season. Praise for them.”
Source: Evening Standart
Writer: Yoga Radyan
