Arsenal have been described as “perhaps the best team in Europe” ahead of their Champions League last 16 clash with Bayer Leverkusen, as the Gunners prepare for their first knockout test of the competition.
Mikel Arteta’s side travel to Germany for the first leg at the BayArena after an impressive run of form across domestic and European competitions this season.
The Premier League leaders finished top of the Champions League league phase with a perfect record and now face Leverkusen in a tie that could further strengthen their reputation as one of the continent’s strongest teams.
Bayer Leverkusen coach praises Arsenal form
Leverkusen head coach Kasper Hjulmand did not hold back when discussing Arsenal’s current level ahead of the meeting between the two clubs.
The Danish coach highlighted the Gunners’ performances during the Champions League league phase as evidence of their quality.
“Arsenal are perhaps the best team in Europe at the moment.” — Kasper Hjulmand
Hjulmand also pointed to the club’s impressive statistics in the competition.
“They finished first in the league phase of the Champions League, won all eight games, scored the most goals and conceded the fewest.” — Kasper Hjulmand
Arsenal chasing historic season under Mikel Arteta
Arsenal’s current campaign has placed them in contention for multiple trophies.
The north London club sit at the top of the Premier League table with a seven point advantage over closest challengers Manchester City, although City still have a game in hand.
Arteta’s team will also face Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final later this month and remain active in the FA Cup, where they are preparing for a quarter final against Southampton.
Those opportunities mean the club remain in the race for a potential quadruple this season.
Leverkusen confident despite difficult challenge
Despite the praise for Arsenal, Hjulmand insisted his team will approach the match with belief.
Leverkusen have produced several strong performances against top opposition this season and remain unbeaten against English clubs during the campaign.
“We’ve already shown this season against big teams that we can beat them. As we all know, anything is possible in football.” — Kasper Hjulmand
The German club will aim to take advantage of the home crowd at the BayArena before the second leg takes place in London.
Growing recognition for Arsenal’s progress
Hjulmand is not the first manager to highlight Arsenal’s current level.
Earlier this season, Leeds United manager Daniel Farke made a similar claim after his team suffered a heavy defeat against the Gunners in the Premier League.
The repeated praise reflects the consistency of Arteta’s side during the campaign.
Key Insights
- Arsenal face Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League last 16 first leg.
- Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand called Arsenal “perhaps the best team in Europe”.
- Arsenal finished top of the Champions League league phase with eight wins.
- The Gunners are also leading the Premier League title race.
- Mikel Arteta’s team remain in contention for multiple trophies this season.
What’s Next
Arsenal travel to the BayArena for the first leg of the Champions League last 16 tie, aiming to secure an advantage before the return match at the Emirates Stadium.
The club will also continue balancing domestic commitments as they prepare for the Carabao Cup final and upcoming FA Cup quarter final.
Can Arsenal maintain their strong form and take control of the tie against Bayer Leverkusen?
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