Arteta: Arsenal’s Stronger Squad Gives Champions League Edge

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta says his side’s growing squad depth could be the key to pushing further in this season’s Champions League.

The Gunners reached the semi-finals last season before being knocked out by eventual winners Paris Saint-Germain. But after a 2-0 win over Olympiakos in the league phase on Tuesday, Arteta believes Arsenal are better equipped to compete at the highest level.

The Spaniard was able to rotate six players from the starting XI, with stars like Declan Rice, Eberechi Eze, and Bukayo Saka waiting on the bench. It was Saka who made the difference late on, scoring Arsenal’s second goal after coming on as a substitute.

“With all respect, last season we were looking (at the bench) and we had five academy players there, that probably never played professional football in the Champions League, so it makes a difference,” Arteta explained. “I want everyone to feel involved and part of it, and tonight was a great example.”