Declan Rice Cautions Arsenal Against Complacency Following Victory Over Bayern Munich

LONDON — Declan Rice has urged Arsenal not to become complacent following their 3-1 victory over Bayern Munich on Wednesday, a win that helped them maintain their flawless start to the Champions League phase.

The Gunners secured their fifth consecutive victory in Europe this season, with goals from Jurriën Timber, Noni Madueke, and Gabriel Martinelli marking Bayern’s first defeat in any competition this year.

Teenager Lennart Karl equalized for Bayern shortly after Timber’s opener in the 32nd minute. However, Madueke and Martinelli, who came off the bench, significantly turned the tide in Arsenal’s favor during a remarkable second half, placing them at the top of both the Premier League and Champions League tables.

Rice commented, “Look at Bayern Munich this season; they have been the best team in Europe. This was probably the toughest tactical match we have played this season. Their approach is exceptionally effective.

“In the second half, we adopted a man-to-man strategy and performed outstandingly. The manager is very pleased. It was a remarkable night for European football.

“Yes, it definitely feels different from last season. Our team possesses numerous leaders. We’re taking it one game at a time, driven by a strong hunger and desire to win every match. There is still a long way to go, so we must not get carried away.”

Arsenal faced Bayern in the quarterfinals two seasons ago, and manager Mikel Arteta remarked, “We are different now, and so are they. This is a different stage in the competition. The margins were indeed very thin in that previous tie. However, that’s history. We hope to learn from it, and I believe we are better prepared to show that.

“So far, we have been incredibly consistent in this competition, but it is just the beginning.”