Mikel Arteta Declares Arsenal "Much Better" as Champions League Campaign Kicks Off

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has declared that the current version of his team represents the most formidable squad he has overseen since arriving at the Emirates Stadium.

Following three consecutive runner-up campaigns in the Premier League, Arsenal invested significantly during the summer transfer period to bring in Viktor Gyökeres, Martín Zubimendi, Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke, Piero Hincapié, Cristhian Mosquera, Christian Nørgaard and Kepa Arrizabalaga, with strengthening squad depth being a central objective for Arteta.

"It's been outstanding for our requirements and our ambitions," Arteta shared with TNT Sports regarding his team's summer signings. "We're fortunate that players are eager to join Arsenal now and choose us over other destinations, which represents incredible influence that we've developed and provides us with our greatest opportunity.

"We discussed the Premier League last season and we've spent three years accumulating point totals that would typically secure the title, but the standard has reached unprecedented heights, which is fantastic.

"Regarding signings, we're in a significantly improved position compared to last year's squad. We're doing everything within our power."

From Athletic Club's perspective, Arsenal's Tuesday Champions League league phase opponents, Arteta has successfully constructed a contender for the European championship.

"They rank among the Champions League favorites due to their technical and tactical prowess, plus the championship mentality that Arteta has cultivated within them," manager Ernesto Valverde commented before the match.

This view was echoed by Athletic and Spain keeper Unai Simón, who informed The Guardian: "We must remain vigilant. Arsenal represents one of our favorite teams to observe.

"During the draw, you hope for the most manageable opponents, though none truly exist. At least that's a player's perspective. Ask my mother and she prefers attractive destinations. The only experience I genuinely wanted was [Borussia] Dortmund away and we secured it. We drew Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal, which presents major challenges, but that's the reality. My mother would have preferred London or Paris, but since we're facing them I'm pleased it's at San Mamés."