The highly anticipated Arsenal vs Bayern showdown took a surprising turn on Wednesday night as Mikel Arteta’s side broke a long-standing pattern of setbacks against the German giants. Instead of reliving familiar disappointment, the Gunners delivered a commanding 3-1 victory on home turf, handing Vincent Kompany his first defeat of the 2025/26 campaign. The response to the loss has been intense, not only because of the scoreline but also because of Kompany’s post-match remarks, which have sparked widespread criticism from pundits and fans alike.
Arsenal’s Dominance Shines Through Early Exchanges
The match began with high intensity, but it was Arsenal who seized control first. Jurrien Timber opened the scoring just 22 minutes into the contest when he connected brilliantly with Bukayo Saka’s cross, steering a precise header past Manuel Neuer. Bayern responded through a well-coordinated move that saw Lennart Karl level the score, but from that point onward, the visitors struggled to match Arsenal’s pace, structure, and aggression.
The second half became a showcase of Arsenal’s impressive balance between defensive discipline and attacking versatility. Noni Madueke restored the hosts’ lead in the 69th minute, capitalizing on the consistent pressure that had Bayern pinned back. Later, Gabriel Martinelli took full advantage of Neuer’s miscalculation outside his box, calmly slotting the ball into an empty net to make it 3-1, sealing a well-deserved win in this Arsenal vs Bayern encounter.
Kompany’s Post-Match Reaction Draws Criticism
For Kompany, widely regarded as one of football’s most promising young coaches, the defeat was unfamiliar territory. Addressing what went wrong for his side, the 39-year-old admitted: “We played against a very good Arsenal team today, so well done to them. I think we started the game well enough, but then they had a bit of momentum with the set pieces.”
He continued by reflecting on his expectations during the break: “At half-time, I thought continuing that way would give us the win – and then, in the second half, we didn’t come out at all. We sort of let ourselves down in the second half in comparison to what we are used to.”
Kompany further acknowledged Arsenal’s depth and flexibility, noting that their substitutions do not diminish their overall quality. According to him, their bench strength gives Arteta a clear advantage in games like this. However, it was another comment that intensified reactions online. Kompany stated: “I’d love to play them again, as soon as possible… hopefully, in the latter stages with a good amount of learning from this game.” Watch Kompany interview below.
Many interpreted this as an unusually bold statement considering how convincingly Bayern were outplayed in the Arsenal vs Bayern matchup.
Tunnel Reactions Add Fuel to the Conversation
Adding to the drama, Peter Schmeichel shared insights from behind the scenes. Speaking to The Metro, he revealed Kompany’s emotional state moments after the final whistle. “Oh my God! He was the first one here and he was so angry. I’ve never seen him like that!” Schmeichel remarked, suggesting that the Belgian coach was far more frustrated than he let on publicly.
Bayern, still unbeaten in the Bundesliga with ten wins from their first eleven matches, will now look to regroup quickly. Players like Harry Kane and Michael Olise will be eager to avoid another setback should the opportunity arise for a rematch later in the season. For now, though, Arsenal walk away with both the victory and the momentum, while Kompany faces scrutiny over tactical decisions and the tone of his response.
Naijanewz Compiled Some of the Comment by x Users
@Yum785 said:
“To be expected. He backs his team. But, honestly, the set piece bar gets higher w/Big Gabi and Kai back. And Upamecano can be HAD. As well as both RB/LB. Laimer acquitted himself well until he met Noni on a full tank of gas. Lol. Hope to see a 2nd Rd myself”
@BobbyBayern1900 said:
“Arsenal fans have big mouths after their little win..let’s see how the season pans out..this win feels like Arsenal’s ‘only’ trophy this season..you will always be pathetic…can’t change my mind😂😂😂😂“
@eze_would said:
“He sounds bitter and hurt … you want to play us again? Cos u didn’t have Diaz Musiala and Davies? Bruh This isn’t even our starting XI Gyokeres Havertz Ödegaard & Big Gabi all missing”
@bangbangfc10 said:
“Did he really say “They’re a very good team until the end of the season” ?😄”
@MLArsenal said:
“There’s nothing he can do. He’s confused by being in an easy league and thinks he can make changes to change the game. We know who you are as a manager and what you bring.“
@greatotatei said:
“Kompany, Arsenal just gave you a free tactical seminar. How many lessons you tryna take this season”