Arsenal beat Atletico Madrid 4-0 on Tuesday(Image: Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Arsenal sent a message on Tuesday evening: Mikel Arteta's side are the real deal.

The Gunners' supremacy from set-pieces has been evident for the past couple of seasons, but this time they took it up a level - on a European evening, outplaying Atlético Madrid at their own game.

In a hostile atmosphere, Arsenal controlled the tempo, frustrated their opponents, and punished them ruthlessly whenever a dead-ball opportunity arose. Declan Rice, in particular, is fast becoming the undisputed master of the free-kick.

"It was such a teasing and inviting ball. Very, very hard to defend," his cross for the opener was described. "That delivery is wonderful. It was absolutely begging for someone to get there head onto it.

"So many times we have seen Gabriel do it, and he's done it again!"

Mikel Arteta's side are set-piece kings(Image: Javier Garcia/Shutterstock)

Rice's performance also made waves on social media: "Declan Rice delivery on set pieces is top three in the world right now!"

"Rice...