Mikel Arteta thrilled with Arsenal's dominant win against Sporting

The triumph, hailed by manager Mikel Arteta as the team's best Champions League performance under his tenure, broke a five-game goal drought in the competition and showcased Arsenal as genuine challengers for European glory.

Goals from Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Magalhaes, Bukayo Saka, and Leandro Trossard highlighted the Gunners' attacking prowess.

The win handed Sporting Lisbon their first defeat of the season, underlining the gap in class on the night.

Asked if it was Arsenal's best Champions League win under his command, Arteta said: "For sure. Especially against the opponent that we played in their home. I don't think they've lost here in 18 months.

"They've been in top form, they've been better than everyone they've played here. To play to that level with the fluidity that we've done today, very pleased.

"The performance was there a few times when we have played big teams. We played PSG and we were exceptional again. We played Bayern and were exceptional. But we made some mistakes and it cost us.

"That's the level. We have to be able to cope. You have to make it happen. That creates belief. We need that consistency because the ability is there. It's a big performance, a big win and we're really happy."

Arteta praised his squad's improved fitness, crediting it as a key factor in the result. However, the victory was tempered by concern over Gabriel Magalhaes, who left the pitch injured.

His condition will be closely monitored ahead of Arsenal's Premier League clash with West Ham on Saturday.

"We don't know on Gabriel," added Arteta. "We had to make the change because he was feeling some discomfort. We had to get him out.

"It's true that we're still managing certain players. The level raises no doubt if we have the availability we're going to be a really good side."

The dominant display reaffirms Arsenal's ambitions in Europe, leaving fans optimistic about their prospects in the competition.

With the team firing on all cylinders, the Gunners look poised to challenge the continent's elite. 

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