On 26/11 at Emirates Stadium, Arsenal had less possession (45%) but controlled the game and often dominated. The Gunners had 14 shots with eight on target, compared to Bayern's six shots with two on target, scoring three goals through Jurrien Timber, Noni Madueke, and Gabriel Martinelli.

On Sky Sports, Paul Merson, a former midfielder who played for Arsenal from 1985 to 1997, regarded this as a highly symbolic victory. Arsenal is the only team to have won all five opening Champions League matches. The Gunners also extended their unbeaten run across all competitions to 16 matches, leading both the Premier League and the Champions League.

"That was a major statement from Arsenal," Merson commented. "This result will resonate across Europe. Everyone will look at it and say 'Wow', especially considering what Bayern has done to Arsenal in the past."

Gabriel Martinelli scores the decisive goal past goalkeeper Manuel Neuer during Arsenal's 3-1 victory over Bayern at Emirates Stadium, London, England, on 26/11/2025. *Photo: The Guardian*

According to Merson, Bayern this season remains a team that sweeps aside all opponents. He stressed that while the Bundesliga might not be as intense as the Premier League, Bayern is always an experienced and resilient team in European competitions. "Arsenal played excellently. The first half was a struggle for both sides, but in the second half, Arsenal crushed their opponent," the English legend remarked.

Merson also praised the depth of Arsenal's squad, as substitutes like Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli both scored. Martin Odegaard's return also provided coach Mikel Arteta with more quality options.

However, Merson believes Arsenal's most important player currently is Declan Rice, who was voted man of the match. "Madueke, Martinelli, Calafiori, Odegaard, and Ben White could all start for most other teams," he stated. "But for Arsenal, they cannot lose Rice. He is getting better and better. Rice ran so much that Bayern was exhausted."

After overcoming Tottenham and Bayern, Arsenal faces another major challenge when they travel to Chelsea's stadium for Premier League round 13 on 30/10. This match is between the league leaders and the second-placed team.

Merson suggested that if Arsenal wins, the title race would be effectively over. The 57-year-old former player said, "Get ready for Sunday. Chelsea – Arsenal is a massive game. If Arsenal wins, I think it's over. They won't be caught and will sweep aside every opponent."

Declan Rice receives the man of the match award.

Another former Arsenal player, Martin Keown, also gave special praise to Declan Rice after his performance in the victory over Bayern. "I jumped out of my seat in the second half. Rice made a tackle right in front of the technical area, then Calafiori surged down the left wing, delivering an excellent pass," he commented on TNT Sports.

The former English center-back emphasized that Arsenal accelerated at the right time, with appropriate personnel adjustments. "Two players came on and made an impact; the substitution decisions were very timely," Keown said. "Arsenal shifted into high gear and made a significant statement with this performance. Tottenham last weekend, Bayern tonight – both were run ragged by Arsenal until exhaustion. Now they understand Arsenal is a true contender in this season's Champions League."

Hong Duy (according to Sky Sports, Metro, talkSPORT)