In the buildup to their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal clash against Arsenal, Bayern Munich’s head coach, Thomas Tuchel, is banking on his team’s wealth of experience in the competition to provide them with a crucial edge.
Tuchel’s comments come amidst a season of mixed fortunes for the German giants, who find themselves trailing in the Bundesliga and experiencing early exits in domestic competitions.
The encounter with Arsenal marks the fifth time Bayern Munich and Arsenal have met in the knockout stages of the Champions League, with Bayern emerging victorious in all four previous encounters. Tuchel acknowledges this history but remains focused on the task at hand, stressing the importance of utilizing their Champions League pedigree to their advantage.
“We have more experience in the Champions League. It’s different in the Champions League compared to the Premier League. We want to use that to our advantage,” Tuchel told reporters on Monday, underlining the distinct challenges posed by European competition compared to domestic leagues.
However, Bayern’s dominance in Europe contrasts with their inconsistent form domestically this season. Tuchel concedes that Bayern’s performances in the Bundesliga and German Cup have been below par, inviting criticism from pundits and fans alike. Despite this, Tuchel remains resolute in his belief in the team’s ability to rise to the occasion on the European stage.
“We’ve been rightly criticized after our performances in the cup and the league. We accept that. The consistency in our performances wasn’t what we expect from ourselves,” Tuchel added, addressing Bayern’s shortcomings in domestic competitions.
Acknowledging Arsenal’s impressive form in the Premier League, where they currently sit atop the table, Tuchel highlights their strengths, particularly in set-piece situations. Under the guidance of manager Mikel Arteta, Arsenal has undergone a transformation, with Tuchel noting a change in culture and tactical approach at the North London club.
“Arsenal are currently the best team in the Premier League, all statistics prove that. They’re in fantastic form,” Tuchel said. “They’re also the best team in Europe from set pieces. We’re a little behind. We know about their strengths, how we want to hurt them.”
Despite recognizing Arsenal’s prowess, Tuchel remains confident in Bayern’s ability to compete at a high level. He emphasizes the importance of studying their opponent’s tactics and vulnerabilities while expressing admiration for Arteta’s impact at Arsenal.
“There’s been a change of culture under Arteta. This is now paying off massively. They’re dominating the toughest league in the world,” Tuchel said. “But we’ll also try to be strong. The style in the Champions League is different from the Premier League. But huge credit to Arteta and the club.”
As Bayern Munich prepares for their Champions League showdown with Arsenal, Tuchel’s reliance on their experience and tactical astuteness underscores their determination to progress in the competition, despite facing a formidable opponent in the form of Arsenal.
Be sure not to miss out on the latest news about Champions League
Download our brand new App and follow your favorite players, clubs, and much more
