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Ancelotti backs Wenger to beat Arsenal slump

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MUNICH, Germany: Bayern Munich coach Carlo Ancelotti has backed under-fire Arsene Wenger to lead Arsenal out of their slump, despite their “sensational” 5-1 Champions League thrashing in Germany.


Wenger’s 20-year reign as Arsenal coach is under pressure after their mauling at Thiago Alcantara-inspired Bayern.


The Gunners had few answers to the hosts’ second-half display at the Allianz Arena and face an uphill battle for the last 16, second leg tie on March 7.


But Ancelotti believes the Frenchman has the experience to pull Arsenal out of the mire as they stare down the barrel of a seventh last-16 exit in consecutive seasons.


“This is football, Arsene has the experience to manage this result and move forward — this is only one game,” said Ancelotti, who oversaw his 148th European game.


After Alex Ferguson, who coached in 198 Champions League matches, Wenger has the second highest number of European games under his belt with 183.


Bayern extended their Champions League record to 16 home wins by flooring the Gunners with three goals in ten second-half minutes.


‘Perfect’ Thiago


Arjen Robben gave Bayern the lead after 10 minutes with a curling shot from outside the area.


Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez equalised when he drilled home a penalty at the second attempt as it finished 1-1 at the break. But Bayern hit top gear after the interval.


Robert Lewandowski restored the lead with a powerful header before Thiago added two more in a devastating ten minute spell.


Thomas Mueller came off the bench for Lewandowski to net their fifth two minutes from time to complete Arsenal’s misery. — AFP


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