The wait is over! The Champions League is back, and what a way to start our campaign. The Gunners traveled to Spain to face Athletic Club at the cauldron of the Estadio de San Mames, and after a cagey affair, they secured a crucial 2-0 victory. This was a true testament to our squad's depth and resilience, proving that our European ambitions are serious.
Pre-Match Buzz: Arteta's Return
Before the game, Mikel Arteta spoke about the excitement of starting the campaign in such a special place, with his family from nearby San Sebastian. He acknowledged the tough atmosphere they would face and the need to be at their best from day one. He also highlighted the importance of squad depth, especially with the increased number of games this season, stating, "We have discussed that the finishers are going to be more important this season, sometimes more than the starters." These words would prove prophetic.
The Game: A Clash of Styles
Athletic Club, playing in their first Champions League match in over a decade, came out with intense pressure and a direct, physical style of play. They were tough to break down, and for large parts of the first half, it was a battle of attrition. Our backline, anchored by the impressive Cristhian Mosquera, held firm, limiting the home side's clear-cut chances. While we had a few moments from new signings like Noni Madueke and Viktor Gyökeres, the deadlock remained unbroken at halftime.
In the second half, the game opened up, and Arsenal began to find more space. However, it was a double substitution in the 65th and 71st minutes that changed everything. Off came Gyökeres and Eberechi Eze, and on came Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli.
Just 36 seconds after his introduction, Martinelli made his mark. A fantastic flick from Trossard released the Brazilian, who showed blistering pace and composure to run 50 yards and calmly slot the ball past the Athletic keeper to give us a 1-0 lead.
The duo weren't done there. With four minutes to play, Martinelli turned provider, beating his man on the left wing before cutting the ball back to Trossard. The Belgian took a perfect first touch and poked the ball into the roof of the net, sealing the 2-0 victory and proving Arteta's point about the importance of "finishers."
Post-Match Reaction and Man of the Match
Arteta was delighted with the result and the impact of his substitutes. "I adore Gabi [Martinelli]," he said. "His attitude, his commitment, his positivity, what he's willing to do for the team." He went on to say he could see in Martinelli's eyes that he was ready to make an impact. Martinelli himself, speaking after the game, echoed the manager's words about the team spirit, emphasizing how much the support of his teammates meant to him during a difficult spell.
The official UEFA Player of the Match went to Gabriel Martinelli for his game-winning goal and assist. He was an electric force who truly changed the game's momentum.
This was a professional, mature performance from the Gunners. Starting our Champions League journey with an away win in such a hostile environment is a massive statement of intent for the season ahead.
Fun Fact: This was Arsenal's sixth consecutive win against Spanish opposition in the Champions League, a feat no other club has achieved in the competition's history.
Image Credits https://www.arsenal.com/news/gallery-42-photos-our-athletic-club-success