Heynckes: Chelsea lesson helped us crush Arsenal

Wednesday, February 20, 2013
8:18 AM

Bayern manager Jupp Heynckes hailed the “astonishing” form of his side following another imperious display in last night’s 3-1 defeat of Arsenal at the Emirates.

Toni Kroos gave the Germans an early lead and it was all downhill for the Gunners from there.

Heynckes said his side learned never to be complacent again after they were stunned in last year’s final by Chelsea.

He said: “Arsenal allowed us a few things in their defence, but we are in astonishing form and can punish even the smallest mistakes of the opponent.

“At times it was quite difficult for us, we had to work hard, but even when they were putting pressure on us, we coped well.”

Heynckes’ side were beaten in last season’s Champions League final, held at their Allianz Arena home, by the Blues.

However, despite looking well set for another shot at European glory at Wembley in May, the German remains pragmatic.

“You cannot afford to underestimate an opponent because in football, we have seen everything,” he said.

“But in this season it is very difficult against us, you can see that with our position in the league, conceding just seven gaols, that is amazing.

“We are also in a position to score, so we have a good chance to progress.

“But if we were to progress Arsenal can still have options in the Premier League to make the Champions League, the team has potential and class.”