Handbrake Off: The Athletic FC's Arsenal show Merino’s brace seals historic night in Prague
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Nov 5, 2025 A thrilling 3-0 victory against Slavia Prague takes center stage as the hosts delve into Arsenal's resilience and defensive strength. They celebrate Max Dowman's record as the youngest Champions League player and his careful integration into the team. Mikel Merino's intelligent movement and scoring prowess shine, setting him apart in the squad. Fan stories and club kindness add a personal touch, while the panel anticipates a challenging match against Sunderland. A lively discussion wraps up with hopes for ongoing momentum in the season.
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Last-Minute Song-And-Dance
- James McNicholas told a story about being asked to perform a song-and-dance last minute on a kids' TV shoot.
- He had never heard the song, had to learn quickly, and they restarted the take many times before finishing.
Expectation Becomes The New Normal
- James McNicholas admitted he felt oddly disappointed when Slavia Prague finally had a shot on target late in the game.
- That reaction shows Arsenal-level expectations have become Arsenal fans' new normal.
Careful Integration Builds Confidence
- Max Dalman became the youngest Champions League player and showed calm, winning fouls immediately after coming on.
- Amy Lawrence and Art de Roché highlighted careful integration and personality as reasons for his readiness.