Arteta hails Arsenal’s victory over Sporting as a ‘statement win’ | OneFootball

Mikel Arteta hailed Arsenal’s Champions League thrashing of Sporting CP as a “statement win” for his side.

The Gunners hammered their Portuguese opponents 5-1 thanks to goals from Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, Gabriel, Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard.

It was Arsenal’s first away win in the competition this season and Arteta lauded his side’s approach towards the game.

“It’s a big result against a big opponent, I think they haven’t lost a game here in 18 months,” Arteta told TNT Sports.

“We wanted to make that statement. I felt a really good energy, a really good belief before the match but you have to put it into practise.

“I think the first half was exceptional. It gave us the platform to win the game and it’s a really positive and important win for us.

“You have to enjoy it in this competition when you play against these types of teams. What I loved about the team is how it flowed, how they played with that purpose to make things happen and I’m really pleased.”