It felt like Arsenal had experienced this situation before. For the second time in three days, they led 2-0 after a comfortable first half against a blue team.
Although they had previously held three-goal leads, they struggled to maintain them. However, this time their opponents found it difficult to mount a comeback.
PSG posed a far greater challenge than Leicester and forced Arsenal to think more strategically in the second half. Meanwhile, the Gunners seemed determined to avoid any drama this time around.
Compared to last season, when Arsenal appeared lost on the big stage, they now look more confident and ready to prove themselves in Europe.
Mikel Arteta noted a shift in the team’s preparation and focus ahead of the match, expressing that they were eager to demonstrate their dominance at home against a top side. “We need to continue like this,” he stated.
After the match, Bukayo Saka expressed his belief that this is Arsenal’s year to win the title, and it’s hard to disagree given his performance against such formidable opponents.
Mikel Merino’s transfer from Real Sociedad took a while, so it was understandable that his debut was also delayed. He injured himself in an unusual way during his first training session, but he finally got to play on Tuesday night.
When Merino steps onto the pitch, his imposing size is immediately noticeable. At 28, he carries himself confidently and wasted no time directing teammate Riccardo Calafiori once he entered the game.
Within the team, Merino is viewed as a “win now” acquisition. His self-assurance as both a person and a player is expected to aid his quick adaptation. Arteta is confident in his abilities.
“He only trained with us once before tonight, but he was ready,” Arteta said about the summer signing. “He was eager to contribute today. Given our illness issues and necessary adjustments, we believed he could be impactful, and I think he did well.”
In a 4-4-2 formation without the ball, Merino and Rice formed a traditional midfield partnership, pushing forward when Arsenal was in possession. Merino displayed his renowned tenacity, though his passing and technical precision may still need improvement.
Late in the match, a tough sliding tackle matched the intensity of the weather, thrilling the home fans and marking a strong debut for the newcomer.
**Havertz Shines**
Kai Havertz is making an impact right now. His goal against PSG was well-executed, though Saturday’s finish had a touch of luck.
Leandro Trossard’s run and cross were excellent, but Havertz’s decisive movement and clever header made it even better. He has now scored six consecutive times at the Emirates. Arteta praised him, saying, “He’s strong and smart, filling spaces and linking play. When he gets near the box, you know he’s going to score. It was a fantastic goal and a great performance overall.”
Havertz seems to be embracing the physical demands of playing as a No. 9. In the past, he may have shied away from confrontations, but he acknowledges a change.
“It’s amazing to play here,” Havertz said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to help the team. I love this stadium and the fans. Moving here was a big step for me. I didn’t always enjoy duels, but now I do.”
The most telling sign is that discussions about Arsenal needing a new striker have quieted, as Havertz appears to be stepping up to fill that role.
