Arsene Wenger believes 2-0 victory at the Allianz Arena proved the turning point.
Arsene Wenger has identified Arsenal’s Champions League win at Bayern Munich as a turning point in their season.
The Gunners sealed Champions League qualification for the 16th successive campaign with a 1-0 win at Newcastle United on Sunday, pipping rivals Tottenham to fourth place by one point.
Wenger’s side trailed their north London rivals by seven points after losing 2-1 at White Hart Lane on 3 March, but an incredible run of ten matches unbeaten, including eight wins, helped Arsenal over the line.
The French boss hailed his club’s achievement and pointed to the performance against the Bundesliga Champions in the Champions League last-32 as the turning point.
The Gunners arrived at the Allianz Arena 3-1 behind from the first leg at the Emirates Stadium but outplayed the imperious Bavarians, winning 2-0 but exiting on away goals.
“Since February 1st, we have taken more points than anybody else in the league. I don’t believe that’s just down to coincidence, just to the fact that the group has grown,” Wenger is quoted as saying by the Daily Mirror.
“We lacked belief for a long period because we couldn’t win a big game. The Bayern match changed our season away from home.
“It means for us to be capable to play with the top teams in Europe. That’s what you want. It means as well that it’s easier to bring in players when you have a chance to be in the Champions League.
“Let’s not forget we are not in yet. We have to qualify and that’s always a very tricky round for us. But at least we have the chance.”
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