The Athletic FC Podcast Why Bayern are still Arsenal's main European rivals
9 snips
Nov 27, 2025 Seb Stafford-Bloor, a German football writer and Bayern specialist, joins broadcaster Kev Hatchard to dissect Bayern's recent loss to Arsenal. They analyze key mistakes that led to the defeat, such as Upamecano's errant pass and Neuer's set-piece struggles. The guests explore Kompany's evolving management style, tactics, and the implications for Bayern's identity post-Guardiola. They also discuss the club's youth core, reliance on Premier League signings, and the competition landscape in European football.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Arsenal Win Is A Setback, Not Collapse
- Arsenal's 3-1 win doesn't mean Bayern are finished; it highlighted two individual errors that decided the match.
- Seb Stafford Bloor and Kevin Hatchard stress Bayern's season remains strong despite the setback.
Arsenal's System Is World-Class Defensively
- Arsenal's defensive system and 'rest defence' make them elite and difficult to break down.
- Kevin Hatchard argues Arsenal are currently the gold standard, especially defensively under Mikel Arteta.
Use Long Balls To Negate High Press
- Arteta varied Arsenal's approach by using direct long balls to disrupt Bayern's high press.
- Play long to deny opponents the chance to press high and regain possession easily, as Arsenal did.