Kimmich criticises Arsenal’s set-piece strength after Bayern rout

Joshua Kimmich claimed Arsenal were “not the best team” Bayern Munich have faced this season after their 3-1 Champions League defeat at the Emirates Stadium and suggested the match “was not a football game.”

The Bayern vice-captain argued that Arsenal’s focus on set-pieces, long balls and duels shaped a contest that he felt contrasted sharply with their meeting against Paris Saint-Germain.

Kimmich, speaking to Bild, said PSG offered Bayern the toughest test this year despite Arsenal replacing them at the top of the Champions League standings.

He insisted Bayern expected a physical contest in north London but admitted his side were not brave enough in possession or sharp enough in duels.

Arsenal scored their tenth corner goal of the season when Jurrien Timber rose above Manuel Neuer to head in Bukayo Saka’s delivery for the opener.

Neuer later claimed he had been pushed before the header, repeating the team’s frustration with Arsenal’s set-piece strength, although replays showed minimal contact.

Kimmich argued that Arsenal “rely on set-pieces” and “love to fight for second balls,” portraying their approach as one that demanded discipline more than creativity.

He contrasted that with PSG, who he described as offering a “football game,” and suggested Arsenal’s methods disrupted Bayern’s rhythm throughout the night.

Bayern equalised through a slick move involving Kimmich’s long pass, Serge Gnabry’s cut-back and Lennart Karl’s confident finish, but they rarely produced similar moments of quality.

Arsenal regained control after the break and restored their lead when Riccardo Calafiori delivered a driven cross for Noni Madueke to force over the line.

Gabriel Martinelli sealed the win after Eberechi Eze clipped a pass over Bayern’s defence, punishing a Neuer misjudgement that left Bayern exposed again.

Kimmich admitted Bayern “were not physically up to par” and lacked the assertiveness needed to manage Arsenal’s pressure and transitions.

He accepted the defeat was “deserved” and said Bayern must learn quickly from a night in which they were outmanoeuvred across key moments.

Arsenal, meanwhile, extended their perfect Champions League record to five wins from five and showcased the set-piece efficiency that has become central to their identity.

The win reinforced their position at the top of Europe’s league phase and offered another example of the control, relentlessness and physical dominance that has defined their campaign.

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