Arsenal’s Rise Sparks Debate as United’s 2008 Standard Looms Large
Arsenal’s stunning form under Mikel Arteta has reignited debate about where this side stands in the modern hierarchy after a dominant 3-1 victory away to Inter, a result that underlined their authority on the European stage.
The win capped another commanding performance in a season that has seen Arsenal open a seven point lead at the top of the Premier League, win all seven Champions League league phase matches, and move to the brink of the Carabao Cup final.
Inter, last season’s Champions League finalists and current Serie A leaders, struggled to cope with Arsenal’s tempo and aggression. Cristian Chivu admitted afterward that his side could not live with the Gunners’ intensity, a trait often associated with elite teams.
The context is impossible to ignore. Arsenal are enjoying their most complete campaign in more than two decades, competing on all fronts with remarkable depth and consistency. Yet history still casts a long shadow, particularly when comparisons are drawn with Manchester United’s treble-winning class of 2008.
The debate gained traction during coverage of the Inter match, when Theo Walcott floated the idea of comparing Arteta’s Arsenal to that iconic United side. Wayne Rooney’s instant response was emphatic, dismissing the notion without hesitation and reinforcing the standard that team set.
Inside the stadium in Milan, the atmosphere reflected Arsenal’s growing confidence. They controlled possession early, pressed aggressively, and built attacks patiently through midfield, with their structure forcing Inter wide and limiting clear chances.
Key moments came as Inter attempted to respond physically, only to be met by Arsenal’s compact shape and discipline. Defensive interventions, timely recoveries, and quick transitions ensured the visitors rarely lost control of the contest.
The goals followed the rhythm of the match. Arsenal struck with precision rather than chaos, capitalising on sustained pressure and moments of quality rather than open exchanges. Inter’s reply briefly threatened momentum, but it was swiftly shut down.
After the break, Arsenal managed the game with maturity. They limited risk, recycled possession intelligently, and introduced fresh legs from a bench packed with international quality. The control never truly slipped.
Late on, the gulf in sharpness told. Arsenal punished fatigue, added a decisive third goal, and closed out the match with authority, leaving little doubt about the outcome.
The result strengthens Arsenal’s credentials as genuine contenders across competitions, but it also sharpens the wider conversation. Until Arteta’s side converts dominance into major trophies, comparisons with Ferguson’s relentless 2008 United remain premature. For now, Arsenal are leading the present. The past, however, still sets the ultimate benchmark.