Because of Bayern Munich’s great recent record in the Champions League (and of course Arsenal’s dire performances at this level!) everyone is assuming that we are far outsiders to progress to the next round. But according to our other big German star, Shkodran Mustafi, there is no reason why we should be overawed at facing the Bundesliga giants – as we are used to playing against massive sides in the Premier League on a regular basis.
“Of course, Bayern is a massive team to face, but we now all about this from Premier League games against teams like Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United.” Mustafi said.
“These are always big clubs with hugely talented players and games between two evenly-matched sides. The small details decide whether you win or lose.”
Also the centre-back is non-plussed about our record against Munich, as he wasn’t in the Arsenal team back then! “It’s the first time for me, but I know that Bayern have regularly knocked out Arsenal in recent years,” Mustafi continued.
“Like I said, I’m convinced our team can beat Bayern if we play to our potential. It’s up to us, that’s what makes me so positive about the tie. We’re not a team saying we hope Bayern has a bad day, but we are saying we hope we have a good day, because we know what we are capable of.
“Ultimately, in games between two evenly-matched sides, it will come down to the minor details, how you play, how you read the game, every individual player’s form on the day.
“It’s very important when you can decide your own fate.”
This all sounds very positive from the talented defender, but although he is right that we are used to playing against top sides, he seems to conveniently forget that we usually lose those big games as well! In fact in our 6 games against Top Six sides this season we have only won one of them!
Suddenly I am not feeling so positive about facing Munich!
Darren N