Arsenal beat Atletico Madrid 4-0 in a Champions League clash on Tuesday, and Mikel Arteta’s side have since earned high praise in the Spanish press.
The Gunners were unable to find a breakthrough at the Emirates in the first 45, but the floodgates well and truly opened after the break.
Viktor Gyokeres has struggled at times since his big-money move, but the Arsenal forward answered any potential critics with a brace against Atletico.
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Further goals from Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Magalhaes capped off a prolific display from Mikel Arteta’s men, who are now being backed for success after the 4-0 win over Diego Simeone’s side.
Mikel Arteta after Arsenal FC v Atletico Madrid - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD3
Photo by Justin Setterfield – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
Spanish outlet El Dia de La Rioja had high praise for the North London outfit in their post-match report, saying it is ‘unfair’ to label them a defensive team.
They wrote: “Little or nothing remains of that timid Arsenal that buckled on this very same stage against Atlético in 2018, in the Europa League. This is a dominant, effective Arsenal, and it’s unfair to label them defensive.”
The outlet went on to suggest Arsenal showed qualities that make them capable of winning the Premier League.
They added: “Arsenal displayed the makings of a great team, a squad capable of winning the Premier League and competing again for the ‘Big Ears’, with the feeling that last year’s semi-finals are still a bit short.”
The win over Atletico means Arsenal have continued their flawless start to their Champions League campaign, and are one of just two sides yet to concede a goal in the competition this season.
While defensive solidity is key to their success, Gyokeres’ return to goal-scoring form has pleased Arteta.
Viktor Gyokeres looks on during Arsenal vs West Ham
Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images
Mikel Arteta reacts to Viktor Gyokeres’ brace vs Atletico Madrid
Speaking to the club’s media post-match, the Spaniard revealed all of his Arsenal teammates were so pleased for the Swede.
He said: “I think he deserved it, because everything that we were seeing in terms of what he was bringing to the team and how much he was helping the team in many areas, apart from scoring goals in the last few weeks, there was no debate about that. It was about keeping that belief in himself, that emotional state, that he can enjoy and play freely.
“I think he’s certainly done that today. Again, he was rewarded with two goals, and the biggest smile on his face. Look at his teammates as well in the pictures and videos, they are all so happy for him because he fully deserves it.
There were concerns about Gyokeres after seven games without a goal, but his display in the Champions League should give the striker plenty of confidence moving forward.