Arsenal did not have forwards Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus available, but Arteta was able to call up Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli from the substitutes’ bench.
Arsenal have suffered injuries to a number of their forwards but, with captain Martin Odegaard returning tonight and Gyokeres and Havertz progressing, Arteta’s chances look set to improve further.
After bringing in eight players in the summer, Arteta was able to overcome the problems he faced: Madueke scored his first goal for the club against Bayern, while Martinelli scored his fourth goal in as many games in the Champions League.
“I couldn’t have picked a better game to score my first goal for Arsenal. I’m very happy the team won too,” said Madueke.
“It’s an incredible statement, but we know the work we did. We came into this game with full confidence that we are going to win.
“I’m a confident player. I don’t like someone telling me I can’t do something. But my teammates and staff believe in me.”
And former defender Upson believes Arsenal’s options are one of the main reasons Arteta can keep standards so high.
“The Arsenal bench delivers in all aspects, in terms of freshness and quality.” Upson said.
“We’re talking about multiple players coming in and having an impact. Everyone is fighting for a starting position.
“I think that’s the key. It’s not easy for a coach to keep a team of this depth hungry, united and fighting for the jersey, but also responding in the right way when he’s not in the team.
“Ultimately, Mikel Arteta has all his players pulling in the same direction. The goal is to win the Premier League title and go as far as possible in the Champions League.
