It did not escape attention at Arsenal that
Slavia Prague defender Ondrej Kudela had been found guilty of racially abusing former Gunner Glen Kamara. Slavia’s strenuous denials through the UEFA disciplinary process would also have been noted.
Before kick-off, the Slavia Prague team stood, arms linked, on the edge of the centre circle. The Arsenal team chose to take a knee. Their captain on the night, Lacazette, broke away from his team-mates to kneel just a few feet away from Arsenal’s opponents.
It was a statement of intent, a demonstration of Arsenal’s stance against racism.
“They asked me and the club to take that initiative,” said Arteta. “They had the right reasons for that, the club was supportive. I think it was a great gesture.”
That Arsenal’s three goalscorers were black symbolised their message of equality and opportunity. It was notable too that Lacazette celebrated his excellent second goal with a raised fist.