Arsenal’s excitement for their first Champions League appearance in six years was so high that they printed the competition’s anthem in the matchday programme.
Many sang along to “Zadok the Priest” when the time came. But the opening bars in a rain-soaked Emirates Stadium were a joy to hear, due to his long absence from Europe’s premier club. There was a cathartic release of pain.
Step The Gunners were determined to get their moment back in the big time. And they didn’t disappoint, winning 4-0 on Wednesday against PSV Eindhoven. An authority usually associated with seasoned Champions League campaigners. Obtained through None of the starting line-ups for their previous outing — a 5-1 home defeat against Bayern Munich in March 2017 — are still at the club.
Indeed, there is only one surviving member of the squad from that night — midfielder Mohamed Elne. And with a rookie Champions League manager in Mikel Arteta.
The home side could have been forgiven if they were a little underwhelmed on this exciting occasion.
Reluctance was no show despite the adrenaline coursing through their veins. “It was great to see the atmosphere and the Champions League music,” Arteta said in his post-match news conference.
“Before that everyone was getting a bit emotional. I was [emotional], yes. I was really excited about it. And i wanted to control it and not show it too much. But I was really excited.
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“The journey started last year when we qualified for the competition, where we need to be as a club. Now we have to produce what we need to be at this level.”