Arsenal secured their second Champions League victory by defeating Olympiacos 2-0 on Wednesday. The Gunners showcased impressive squad depth, leading to high praise from commentators. Mikel Arteta’s side demonstrated their readiness to compete on all fronts this season. Arsenal’s summer signings have significantly bolstered their options.
Ally McCoist impressed by Arsenal bench strength
Arsenal began their Champions League campaign with a win over Athletic Club. The Gunners continued their winning streak at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night. Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka both scored in the 2-0 victory. Martin Odegaard also delivered an eye-catching performance.
However, Ally McCoist admitted he was more focused on Arsenal’s bench before the Olympiacos game even started. Speaking on TNT Sports, McCoist highlighted the quality of Arsenal’s substitutes. McCoist feels Arsenal are now ready to compete in all competitions this season.
Mikel Arteta’s squad depth earns praise
Mikel Arteta’s substitutes included Cristhian Mosquera, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze, Jurrien Timber, Declan Rice, Christian Norgaard and Riccardo Calafiori. McCoist was particularly impressed by the players Arteta left out of the starting lineup. He noted that it was the first time in years he had been so impressed with Arsenal’s squad depth.
“I look at the Arsenal team, but actually, before I looked at the Arsenal team, I looked at the Arsenal bench,” said McCoist. “I thought to myself ‘wow, dear me’. That’s the first time in a few years that I’ve looked at a bench from Arsenal and I’ve been really, really impressed. Ready to go on all fronts,” he added.
Competition for places boosts Arsenal performance
Arsenal’s summer spending has provided Mikel Arteta with numerous options across the pitch. Owen Hargreaves supported McCoist’s point, stating that Arsenal now possess the depth needed by top teams. Hargreaves added that Arsenal have ‘crazy options’ and Arteta has created a ‘super competitive environment’ at the Emirates Stadium.
“All the top teams, there’s competition for places, so if you don’t play well, you’re not playing,” said Hargreaves. “All of a sudden, they have got these crazy options now, and basically, the guys who are going to play are the guys who are playing well. End of.”
Arteta may make further changes this weekend when Arsenal face West Ham United. Some substitutes may return to the starting XI.
Arsenal’s enhanced squad depth positions them as serious contenders in both the Premier League and the Champions League. The competition for places will likely drive performance and consistency. The upcoming match against West Ham United will be a test of Arteta’s ability to manage his talented squad.
