Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola refused to blame goalkeeper Manuel Neuer for his side’s defeat at Arsenal.
Neuer misjudged a Santi Cazorla free kick, allowing Olivier Giroud to bundle the ball home in the 77th minute as the Gunners went on to beat the Bundesliga champions 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium.
But Neuer made some stunning saves to keep the game level earlier on, and Guardiola would not single out the Germany shot-stopper for criticism.
“The first half he had some great saves,” he said
“Never in my life have I criticised a player for taking decisions if correct or not correct. We did not lose because of Manuel Neuer. This is football and he took a decision in that situation – that is it.
“I’m so proud of my team. I like to win so I’m not happy but we played with a lot of courage to come here and take the ball out of the Arsenal players.
“You cannot expect to come here and create chances. Arsenal have very good players, fast players, but we were there with lots of personality and we showed we are able to come here and compete.”
Bayern had 73 per cent of the possession at the Emirates and 21 shots, but succumbed to their first defeat of the season in all competitions.
Although disappointed with the result, Guardiola admitted he was pleased his side went into the game with a positive approach.
“I’m not happy, but we played with a lot of courage to come here and take the ball from the Arsenal players and proceed to run and run,” he added.
“I know you cannot expect to come here and create chances and don’t receive any one.
“Obviously Arsenal have very, very good players and fast players, but we were there with a lot of personality. We showed we are able to compete, to come here with personality and to play.
“I can just say congratulations for Arsenal.”
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