Mikel Arteta was full of praise for Arsenal's squad depth after they comfortably defeated Lille 3-0 in the Champions League. The Spanish manager stressed the importance of every player earning their place in the team, stating that competition for spots only serves to benefit the squad.
After a challenging first half, the Gunners came alive following the break, scoring three goals in quick succession. Jurriën Timber opened the scoring, before substitute Bukayo Saka set up Eberechi Eze, who then turned provider for Saka’s goal.
Arteta acknowledged that his side had to improve their quality to break down Lille's well-organised defence.
“We needed to raise our technical level. At this level, teams are very well organised. We were making simple mistakes – poor touches, slow decisions, sending balls into the box that weren’t up to standard, and getting into uncomfortable situations.
Once we improved our play, we started spending more time in the opponent's box. Thanks to the quality of our players, that brought us results,” explained the manager.
The influence of substitutions also came under Arteta's spotlight, as he emphasised how the players coming off the bench injected more intensity and quality into the game.
“Those who started also created great moments, but the players who finished the match were outstanding – they lifted the intensity and quality of our play.
Game time goes to those who deserve it. Everyone must earn it because we have competition and different options in the squad. This will only have a positive impact on our performances,” Arteta remarked.
This commanding win was particularly significant as the Gunners gear up for their next match. Arteta acknowledged that competing in the Champions League is no easy feat, commending Lille as a strong side, but he underscored that a successful result would provide good momentum for Sunday’s encounter.
Lille is a fantastic team. But victories help: when we start preparing for Sunday’s match, we will have good energy,” the coach added.
Arsenal's impressive win also showcased their rotation capabilities, with substitutes evidently able to shift the game's dynamics. For Arteta, this serves as another argument for the high levels of competition within the team.
