Arteta Celebrates Arsenal's Triumph Over Europe's Top Side Bayern

Mikel Arteta commended his Arsenal squad following their impressive 3-1 defeat of Europe's "top team" Bayern Munich on Wednesday, which extended their lead at the summit of the Champions League standings.

The Gunners controlled the latter stages against the six-time continental winners to emerge as clear victors.

Bayern's young 17-year-old midfielder Lennart Karl levelled Jurrien Timber's early strike just before the break.

However, Noni Madueke regained Arsenal's advantage with his debut goal for the team, and substitute Gabriel Martinelli capitalised on a major error by keeper Manuel Neuer.

Arsenal now boast a perfect record of five victories from five in the Champions League, positioning them strongly for direct entry into the knockout phase.

They lead by three points over several rivals, including Bundesliga frontrunners Bayern, who arrived in London unbeaten with four straight Champions League successes.

"I must applaud our players as they delivered an outstanding performance against what I consider Europe's finest side," remarked the thrilled Arsenal boss Arteta.

"On an individual level, we were outstanding in overcoming every obstacle this opponent presented."

The Spaniard continued: "We realise the margins are incredibly tight. We kicked off the week strongly with a home win over Spurs (4-1). 

"This latest result is another significant boost, but that's all. Now it's time to head home, enjoy a good meal, and begin planning for Stamford Bridge (versus Chelsea) come morning."

Arteta noted that securing last-16 qualification soon would help, yet he cautioned about upcoming difficulties.

"The atmosphere we generated in the stadium, the vibe from the team, the intensity we bring, the skill we display, it's remarkable, and we must sustain it since it's early days," he explained.

An increasing feeling suggests Arsenal may be poised for greatness after recent near-misses, including three straight runner-up spots in the Premier League.

Yet Arteta emphasised a prompt return to training on Thursday ahead of Sunday's clash with high-flying Chelsea, currently second in the Premier League.

Arsenal's depth is evident as two goals arose from bench players, Madueke and Martinelli.

The team is without several key figures such as Gabriel Magalhaes, Kai Havertz, and Viktor Gyokeres.

"Looking at our substitutes, they enter and shift the momentum, which is exactly what's needed," Arteta stated.

"At this elite standard, we've enhanced not just the talent but also the mentality of those coming off the bench, and that's proving transformative for us."