Kevin De Bruyne has described Arsenal as “the best team in the world” after Mikel Arteta’s side opened their Champions League campaign with a 1-0 win over Napoli.
According to Metro, the Belgian midfielder praised Arsenal’s quality following their victory at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium on Wednesday night.
Arsenal dominated large parts of the match but struggled to turn their chances into goals. It took until the 75th minute for Martin Odegaard to break the deadlock and secure all three points for the visitors.
The result also maintained Arsenal’s perfect start to the 2026/27 season, with the Gunners now winning all five of their competitive matches.
De Bruyne Praises Arsenal’s Quality
Speaking to CBS Sports after the game, De Bruyne agreed when Arsenal were described as potentially the best team in the world.
“I agree, they are the champions of England and they lost the last Champions League final on penalties, so we know how strong they are.”
The Napoli midfielder also felt his team had competed well, despite facing an Arsenal side he considered stronger.
“I think we actually did a good job. When we tried to play, we had some moments where we created. Of course, we had to stay low sometimes, and in the second half we gave them a little bit too much. We were too deep.”
De Bruyne added that Napoli were beginning to show signs of improvement under their new manager, Massimiliano Allegri.
“But after that we had moments again. It’s an improvement for me from what I saw in the first few games. We’re starting to play better, so that’s a good thing.”
Arteta Delighted With Arsenal’s Performance
Arteta was equally pleased with his team’s display, particularly their mentality and ability to control a difficult away match.
“I’m very, very happy.”
The Arsenal manager continued:
“A really tough place to come and a really different environment to play football — a beautiful one, by the way — against a really good team.”
Declan Rice also had plenty of praise for Odegaard, who has now scored three goals this season after struggling with injuries during the previous campaign.
Rice highlighted the captain’s importance to Arsenal, insisting that Odegaard has the quality to shine in any team when he is fully fit.
Arsenal Maintain Perfect Start
Arsenal will now look to build on their impressive opening to the season as they continue competing on both the domestic and European fronts.
With Arteta’s side already showing strong form, the Gunners will be hoping this latest victory is another step towards challenging for major trophies this season.
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