Arsene Wenger seemed in good spirits despite the battering from Bayern in the week.
He appeared more concerned with the weekend fixtures than what happened in the week but did say this about The Champions League, in his press conference on Friday morning.
“When you play against Bayern they are Bayern. I watched the game again and not a lot has changed since my analysis after the game.
“I believe we created a high number of chances but we had not our usual defensive performance. Especially on the first two goals.
With that it was straight on to matters ahead and the super derby in prospect this weekend.
Injuries are already taking their toll on Arsenal, with up to 7 first teasers out this weekend, and AW had this to say:
“I’m very concerned. Because we are only in November and we have so many players out. We go into the Christmas period and I am concerned.
“Because we have too many players out. I give Koscielny 80 per cent. He will have a test tomorrow.”
But he did seem in positive mood, and rightly so, about the title race:
“It’s remarkable what my players have done. Now we want to take advantage and continue.”
“It is too early. We want to be in the fight and will do absolutely everything to do it. With five or six games to go then maybe. I think we have a chance, but it’s down to consistency.”
He also gave glowing praise to Petr Cech:
“I believe there is no coincidence. It’s just class, consistency and quality. And knowing him well after a few months i am not surprised. He analyses everything.
“He is gifted, super-talented and he is one of the greatest goalkeepers ever seen in this country.”
We think that Arsenal will go into the game with a positive gameplay. With their Champions League hopes hanging by a thread, the title looks to be the main goal this season.
Laurent Koscielny would surely be the preferred choice at centre-back and we are optimistic about his chances of making it.
We are pairing him with Gabriel Paulista at the back in what still remains a strong team despite several high profile injures. Here’s our Arsenal XI for the game.
Arsenal fans: discuss
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