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After a six-year hiatus, Arsenal made a resounding return to the Champions League, thrashing Dutch side PSV Eindhoven 4-0 at the Emirates Stadium. Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal boss, admitted that the North London club was brimming with emotion ahead of their European comeback.
Arteta highlighted how Arsenal harnessed this emotion, delivering a commanding performance against PSV. The team's attacking flair was evident, setting an early tone for their Champions League campaign.
The Gunners' onslaught began in the eighth minute, with Bukayo Saka breaking away from his marker to slot home a rebound. The initial attempt by Martin Odegaard was thwarted by PSV's goalkeeper, Walter Benitez. This goal set a new record for Arsenal, marking the earliest they've ever scored in the opening match of a UEFA Champions League season.
The lead was soon doubled by Leandro Trossard in the 20th minute. After receiving a deft pass from Saka, Trossard unleashed a precise right-footed shot that nestled inside the far post. Gabriel Jesus, back in the starting lineup after a knee injury layoff, added the third with a sublime finish, capitalising on a cross from Trossard.
The night's proceedings were sealed by captain Martin Odegaard, who fired a 25-yard stunner past a diving Benitez, ensuring a dream return for Arsenal to Europe's elite competition.
Reflecting on the victory, Arteta said, "It was a beautiful night. After such a long time we needed to produce the right performance to try to win the game." The atmosphere at the Emirates, coupled with the iconic Champions League anthem, added to the emotions. "It was getting a bit emotional before. We showed in both boxes we were exceptional and that was the difference," Arteta remarked.
Arteta, while not overtly expressive, couldn't hide his excitement. "I was really excited about [the game]. It's part of the journey, it started last year. We earned the right to be in this competition, which is where we have to be as a club, and now we have a responsibility to produce to stay at this level," he emphasised.
The Gunners' impressive form continues, with four victories in their first five Premier League matches. This Champions League win adds further momentum as they gear up for the North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, September 24.
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