Bayern’s Joshua Kimmich unimpressed by Arsenal: ‘Set pieces, long balls’
LONDON – Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich said Paris Saint-Germain were a more challenging opponent than Arsenal this season, despite Bayern’s 3-1 Champions League defeat at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday.
Bayern fell to their first loss of the campaign after goals from Jurriën Timber, Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli. The result followed Bayern’s 2-1 win over the reigning French champions earlier this month, a match Kimmich referenced as a more demanding contest.
Speaking to TNT Sports, the Germany international played down suggestions that Arsenal were the strongest opponent Bayern have faced. “I think PSG was the toughest one, especially the way they play,” Kimmich said. “Arsenal is completely different. They rely on set pieces. They love to play long balls. They love to fight for second balls.”
Kimmich said Bayern struggled to impose their preferred style in North London and described the match as one decided by duels and game management. “Today was not so much about football,” he added. “Arsenal did this really well tonight. Their win was well deserved but we have to learn from this game.”
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta had earlier labelled Bayern “the best side in Europe” after securing the victory. Timber’s opener came from a Bukayo Saka corner, and Martinelli’s third arrived on the counterattack, underlining the set-piece and transitional elements highlighted by Kimmich.
The comments add further narrative to a growing rivalry between the two sides, with both clubs positioning themselves among Europe’s elite. For Bayern, the defeat raises questions about consistency in continental competition, while Arsenal’s performance reinforced their credentials under Arteta as they continue to progress in the Champions League.