Kimmich Faces Arsenal’s Tactics: ‘Set Pieces and Long Balls’ vs. True Competition

Joshua Kimmich’s Perspective on Recent Matches

Joshua Kimmich, the Bayern Munich midfielder, has expressed that despite their recent Champions League defeat to Arsenal, the French club Paris Saint-Germain posed a greater challenge this season. Bayern faced Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, suffering a 3-1 defeat, marking their first loss of the season. Yet, Kimmich considered the Gunners’ style of play as more reliant on set pieces and long ball strategies.

Match Highlights

In this match, Arsenal secured their victory with goals from Jurriën Timber, Noni Madueke, and Gabriel Martinelli, with Timber’s goal originating from a corner delivered by Bukayo Saka. Kimmich, however, reflected on Bayern’s earlier encounter with PSG, where they emerged victorious with a 2-1 win. He characterized the French team’s approach as a ‘real football game’, in contrast to Arsenal’s physical tactics focused on winning duels and set plays.

Kimmich’s Insights

Kimmich stated during an interview with TNT Sport, “I don’t think Arsenal were the toughest team we’ve come up against this season. I found PSG to be more impactful in the way they played. Arsenal have a different style; they depend heavily on set pieces and long balls.”

He acknowledged Arsenal’s performance as deserving of the win but emphasized the need for Bayern to analyze and learn from their less football-centric stylistic encounters.

Managerial Perspectives

Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager, had previously remarked on Arsenal’s victory against what he dubbed the ‘best side in Europe’, underlining the significance of their win. However, Kimmich’s commentary signals a differing perspective on the competitive landscape of European football today, raising questions about enduring styles versus tactical effectiveness at high levels.