Arsenal's Brazilian defender Gabriel Magalhaes (second left) celebrates with teammates after scoring their third goal. — AFP

Mikel Arteta declared Arsenal's 5-1 thrashing of Sporting Lisbon as a clear statement of their Champions League ambitions on Tuesday. Arteta had called for a high-energy performance from his squad before their journey to the Jose Alvalade stadium, and they delivered impressively. Goals from Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Magalhaes, Bukayo Saka, and Leandro Trossard propelled the Gunners to seventh place in the restructured Champions League standings, as they aim for a spot in the round of 16. This marked Arsenal's largest away victory in the Champions League since Arsene Wenger's team defeated Inter Milan by the same margin in 2003.

"I'm extremely satisfied. It's a significant victory against a formidable opponent. We aimed to make a statement," Arteta remarked. "I sensed a strong energy and conviction before the match. The first half was outstanding; you must execute it in practice. We were exceptionally clever, intelligent, and efficient. After conceding, we demonstrated considerable character to regain control of the game. Then, scoring the fourth goal shifted the momentum once more."

Ending Sporting's 18-game unbeaten streak across all competitions, just weeks after the Portuguese champions had humiliated Manchester City 4-1 in Lisbon, indicated that Arsenal is regaining their form following a damaging slump. Although the Gunners are nine points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, their 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest last weekend was the initial sign of a resurgence that intensified against Sporting.

While Arsenal still requires a substantial surge to claim their first English title since 2004, Arteta can draw encouragement from a dynamic performance he rated as their finest away outing in Europe since he took the helm five years ago. "Undoubtedly, especially against a team we faced on their home turf, who hadn't lost in 18 months, to perform at the level, with the purpose and fluidity we displayed today, I am very content," Arteta said. "The team played with immense courage, as they are exceptionally talented. Watching them live, they are truly impressive."

The performance was evident on several occasions when we have faced formidable opponents. That is the standard we must maintain, and you must make it happen, which builds belief. Urging Arsenal to replicate the fervor and intensity they showcased against Sporting as they aim to win the Champions League for the first time, Arteta added: "When you compete in this tournament against such teams, you must relish it. What I cherished about this team is the manner in which they flowed. They played with purpose. If you aspire to challenge for major trophies, you must be consistent."

Martin Odegaard did not find the net, but the Arsenal captain, returning to his best after a prolonged injury absence, was pivotal with his astute passing, high-tempo pressing, and clever movement. Saka acknowledged Odegaard's significant impact after the midfielder sustained an ankle injury while on international duty with Norway in September. "He's an incredible player. The day he returned, there was a huge smile on my face," Saka said. "You can witness the chemistry we share. I hope he remains fit for the rest of the season."

Saka was equally crucial in Arsenal's rampage in Lisbon, frequently linking with Odegaard to overwhelm the beleaguered Sporting defense. "This is where we belong. We've demonstrated the level we can achieve," Saka said. "Everyone was exceptional; I'm truly proud of all the boys."

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