Coach Mikel Arteta: 'Arsenal has demonstrated consistency at the highest level'

Arsenal made history with 8 consecutive wins in the Champions League, and coach Mikel Arteta affirmed that this achievement reflects the true character, stability, and ambition of the "Gunners".

Coach Mikel Arteta expressed his pride after Arsenal's victory over Kairat, thereby concluding the 2025/26 Champions League group stage with a perfect record of eight wins, a milestone never before reached in the tournament's history.

Speaking after the match, the Spanish tactician shared his satisfaction with Arsenal’s journey in the qualifying phase. “Yes, I am extremely proud of the players and the winning streak we have had in the first phase of the competition. Winning eight consecutive matches in the Champions League is very difficult, and you can see what has happened to all the other teams. We really need to acknowledge that”, Arteta emphasized.

Regarding the win over Kairat, Arsenal’s head coach said he was pleased with how the players started the game, especially considering the many changes in the lineup. “Today’s match, with many changes, began very well. Everyone’s attitude was excellent. That’s what we asked for”, Arteta stated. However, he also frankly pointed out areas where Arsenal could improve. “We are disappointed with the two goals conceded and the scoring efficiency because we should have scored more goals in the match. But I think it’s a good way to end the first phase of the competition”.

Being the first team to win all 8 group stage matches in the Champions League holds special significance for Arsenal. According to Arteta, this achievement proves the ability to maintain consistent performance at the highest level. “Ultimately, it shows that we can sustain stable form at this level, and if this is the first time, it also shows how difficult it is to achieve”, he shared.

Nevertheless, Arteta stressed that Arsenal must not become complacent after this success. “The players need to be aware of that and have even more confidence in their abilities. But that’s all. Now the competition is over”, the Spanish coach added. He said Arsenal will take time to review their journey before focusing on the knockout stage. “We will start preparing once we know who the next opponent is. Then we will focus on each match one by one, because in this tournament, one action and one moment can change the entire situation, and we are very conscious of that”.

With an unbeaten run, Arsenal enters the 2025/26 Champions League round of 16 with great confidence but maintains necessary caution, as Arteta affirmed.