Paul Merson described Arsenal’s 3-1 win over Bayern Munich as a “huge statement” and said the result would make everyone across Europe sit up and take notice of Mikel Arteta’s side.
Second-half goals from Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli helped the Gunners claim all three points in their heavyweight Champions League clash with Bayern, extending their perfect record in the competition to five wins from five games and taking top spot among 36 teams.
This means Arsenal are unbeaten in the last 16 games and are at the top of the Premier League and Champions League.
Former Gunner Merson said: “This is a huge statement from Arsenal.
“It’s all over Europe. People will pay attention and see this result. They will say it’s amazing, especially considering what Bayern have done against Arsenal in recent years.
“This Bayern Munich team has surprised everyone. I know the Bundesliga is different from the Premier League, but they have proven themselves in Europe. They are deep in the European competition.”
“Arsenal were fantastic.
“It was a touch-and-go game in the first half. Both teams had chances, but Arsenal dominated in the second half.”
“Rice Arsenal’s most important player”
Declan Rice and Bayern’s Joshua Kimmich battle for the ball
Merson praised Arsenal’s strength after substitute Maduke scored his first goal for the club and Martinelli scored on his return from injury.
Martin Odegaard also returned to play to improve Arteta’s options.
However, despite the Gunners’ depth, Melson singled out Declan Rice, who was named man of the match against Bayern, as Arsenal’s most important player.
“We had Noni Madueke, Gabriel Martinelli, Riccardo Calafioli, Martin Odegaard and Ben White. They are five subs and would be in most teams’ starting eleven.
“We can’t afford to lose Declan Rice, given how big and how good the team is. This guy just keeps getting better and better.”
“He was really outstanding and pushed Bayern into a corner.
“He’s Arsenal’s most important player, one million percent. But Martin Zvimendi also deserves a mention. He was phenomenal.”
“I’ll blow everyone away!” – Merce gives verdict on Chelsea vs Arsenal…
Noni Madueke celebrates his first Arsenal goal
After wins over Spurs and Bayern, the challenge continues for Arsenal as they travel to the Premier League to take on Chelsea, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports on Super Sunday (kick-off 4.30pm).
This is also the first and second time the Gunners have faced each other, and Merson believes a win in west London will keep them out of the league.
Sunday, November 30th 4pm
4:30pm kickoff
“On Sunday, sit down, fasten your seatbelt and join us,” he said.
“Today is Super Sunday. Chelsea vs Arsenal is a huge football match.
“I think if Arsenal win, good night, everything will be over.
“They don’t get caught, they just blow everyone away.”
Select your Arsenal eleven to face Chelsea…
Who should start for Arsenal at Chelsea?
With some players returning from injury, Arteta has plenty of options. What is his best lineup?
Have your say now and choose your Gunners eleven to face Chelsea using the interactive team selector below…
Watch Chelsea v Arsenal live this week on Sky Sports Super Sunday, kick-off at 4.30pm
