FC Bayern have only lost one competitive match so far this season – and it came in the Champions League. On 26 November, the Munich side lost 3-1 to Arsenal FC at the Emirates Stadium. Nevertheless, this defeat does not appear to have affected the German record champions‘ international standing. On the contrary: a remarkable seal of approval for Vincent Kompany’s team has now come from Italy of all places
Ahead of the Champions League clash between Inter Milan and Arsenal London, Inter defender Manuel Akanji has taken a surprisingly clear stance. Although the Gunners lead the top flight table with 18 points from six games, the Swiss sees the balance of power clearly divided. „Arsenal are not the strongest team in Europe. For me, Bayern Munich are the strongest team in Europe,“ explained Akanji at the press conference ahead of the game against the Londoners
Chivu sees Bayern on a par with Arsenal
Akanji is not alone in his assessment. Inter head coach Cristian Chivu also made the same point – albeit more diplomatically. The Romanian currently sees two teams at the top of Europe. „I think Arsenal and Bayern Munich are the two best teams in Europe at the moment,“ explained Chivu ahead of his team’s direct clash with the Gunners
This assessment is particularly interesting in light of the fact that Arsenal have a flawless record in the Champions League so far. Six games, six wins, top of the table. FC Bayern follow in second place with 15 points and have only been beaten once so far – at Arsenal
Bayern convincing despite slip-up in London
The fact that Munich continue to be seen as a European benchmark despite this defeat is down to the overall development of the team. Under Vincent Kompany, FCB are dominant in terms of play, physically stable and mentally stable. Even setbacks – such as the 3-1 defeat in London – have not left any lasting marks so far
The Bavarians are marching away from the competition at national level and are on the brink of securing their place in the knockout phase at international level. A home win tomorrow (Wednesday) against Union Saint-Gilloise would give Kompany and his team a direct ticket to the round of 16.