Bayern Munich were a good enough team to reach the Champions League final and compete for the Bundesliga last season, but ultimately came up short in both competitions. As talented as they were, it became apparent as last season wore on that they lacked a complete center forward, another passer in midfield, and an athletic central defender.
Over the summer, Bayern bought three players to plug those holes. They now look like an unstoppable juggernaut, posed to compete on three fronts. They're still in the DFB-Pokal, they have the Bundesliga title all but wrapped up, and they're favorites to advanced past Arsenal in their Champions League tie.
While Arsenal are still one of the best teams in Europe, they've taken an undeniable step back in the last two years, losing their best player and team captain twice in two summers. A year after Cesc Fabregas made his expected departure for Barcelona, Robin van Persie submitted a transfer request and ultimately made a very unexpected move to Manchester United.
Arsenal can only dream of such of such smooth sailing. The Gunners’ preparation for such a pivotal matchup could not have been much worse than a shock FA Cup upset at the hands of Blackburn that has again led to an outpouring of frustration from fans and a thorough examination, at least from the outside, of the direction of the club.
Arsene Wenger bought a number of quality players in an attempt to add depth to the side and replace their output. He was ultimately successful in the former aim, and has put together a solid squad with more depth than he had at his disposal during the Fabregas and van Persie years, but they don't have the same level of quality.
Even while Theo Walcott has the season of his life, Jack Wilshere emerges as a star and Arsenal's summer signings adjust to English football, the club's drop-off from previous heights is unmistakable. They're fifth in the Premier League, out of both domestic cup competitions, and not expected to progress to the quarterfinals of the Champions League.
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