After a long six-year absence, Arsenal has finally made its grand comeback to the prestigious Champions League. The excitement at the Emirates Stadium was palpable, with fans eagerly anticipating this momentous occasion. In fact, the club was so enthusiastic about their return that they printed the lyrics to the Champions League anthem in the matchday program. While not everyone joined in singing “Zadok The Priest,” the cheers that greeted the opening bars of the anthem were a collective release of the anguish endured during their extended absence from Europe’s top club competition.
The Gunners were determined to make the most of their return to the big stage, and they did not disappoint. In a dominant display, they secured a convincing 4-0 victory over PSV Eindhoven. This level of authority is usually associated with seasoned Champions League veterans, but remarkably, none of the players who started in Arsenal’s previous Champions League outing—a 5-1 defeat to Bayern Munich in March 2017—remain with the club today. Only one player, midfielder Mohamed Elneny, is still part of the squad from that fateful night.
With a relatively inexperienced Champions League manager in Mikel Arteta at the helm, Arsenal could have been forgiven for approaching this significant match with caution. However, there was no hesitation on display, despite the heightened emotions.
Arteta, reflecting on the moment, said in his post-match press conference, “It was great to feel the atmosphere and hear the Champions League music. It was an emotional moment for everyone, including myself. I tried to maintain composure, but I was genuinely excited. Our journey began last year when we earned the right to compete in this competition, which is where Arsenal belongs. Now, we must deliver the performances required to stay at this level. Enjoying these moments is crucial because, ultimately, they create lasting memories.”
While PSV’s defending left much to be desired, Arsenal showcased a ruthless efficiency in front of goal that had been lacking in their Premier League campaign. Their ability to convert their dominance into goals had been a concern for Arteta, but they quickly raced to a 3-0 lead within 38 minutes. Goals from Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Jesus highlighted their newfound firepower, leaving PSV struggling to respond.
This comfortable lead allowed Arteta to make several changes in the second half, preserving key players like Jesus, Saka, and midfield linchpin Declan Rice for the upcoming North London derby. Martin Ødegaard added a fourth goal with his trademark precision from the edge of the box.
Comparing this performance to last season’s Europa League encounters with PSV underscores Arsenal’s recent progress. The team has invested heavily, bringing in talents like Trossard, Rice, and Kai Havertz, all of whom played pivotal roles in this resounding victory. It’s a statement win that provides a strong foundation for their Group B campaign.
The choice of David Raya as the starting goalkeeper raised some eyebrows, given Arteta’s previous hints at rotating his goalkeepers. Aaron Ramsdale’s potential role as the cup competition goalkeeper seemed to be in question. Raya’s ability with his feet was evident as he initiated attacks from the back, allowing Arsenal’s defense to press higher up the pitch.
Arteta’s decision to start Raya was explained as a tactical choice based on the expected opponent, with other changes made for the same reason. While the decision raised questions, it ultimately paid off.
In a playful nod to their upcoming Champions League matches, some Arsenal players chose to play the Champions League anthem in the gym earlier in the week. Whether it was a joke or not, one thing was clear: Arsenal looked right at home in the Champions League once again.