Arsenal began their Champions League campaign with a statement 2–0 victory away at Athletic Club, thanks to the impact of two substitutes who changed the game when it seemed destined for stalemate. Gabriel Martinelli, introduced late in the second half, needed less than a minute to break the deadlock before setting up Leandro Trossard to seal the win.
This match was not just about the scoreline; it was a demonstration of the squad depth Mikel Arteta now has at his disposal. For much of the game, Arsenal struggled to impose themselves, their midfield bypassed and rhythm disrupted by Athletic’s aggression in their first Champions League appearance in 11 years. But while the hosts pushed early on, the Premier League side grew into the contest and showed they had the tools to respond decisively when it mattered most.
Viktor Gyokeres and Eberechi Eze both came close to opening the scoring, yet it was the bench that made the difference. In doing so, Arsenal reminded their rivals that their European ambitions rest not only on their starting XI but also on the depth and dynamism of those waiting to be called upon.
Martinelli’s Point to Prove
Gabriel Martinelli’s contribution was as emphatic as it was swift. Replacing Eberechi Eze, who had worked tirelessly on his European debut, the Brazilian wasted no time making his case for a starting role. His blistering pace left Andoni Gorosabel and Aitor Paredes trailing, before he rifled the ball through Unai Simon’s legs to silence the San Mamés crowd.
Martinelli’s performance was not merely about the goal. Three minutes from time, he turned provider, racing to the byline before setting up Trossard to secure the result. The understanding between the two substitutes – with Trossard’s earlier flick releasing Martinelli for the opener – was a clear reminder of Arsenal’s attacking versatility.
With competition for places heightened by summer arrivals, Martinelli’s display was a timely reminder of his value. His instinctive finishing, direct running, and unrelenting energy once again underlined why he has been so important to Arteta’s system in recent seasons.
Gyokeres Shows Glimpses of Promise
New signing Viktor Gyokeres was given the nod in attack and showed flashes of why Arsenal invested in him. The Sweden international’s movement caused Athletic problems, with two early runs behind the defence giving his teammates a platform in the attacking third. He came close to scoring from a Jurrien Timber cross, though his header drifted narrowly wide.
A clash of heads with Gabriel briefly halted his evening, but the striker returned after treatment, continuing to battle hard against a disciplined backline. He combined well with Noni Madueke in the second half, offering Arsenal an outlet as the game grew stretched.
Gyokeres’ inability to convert chances may frustrate him, but his overall contribution provided signs of encouragement. While replaced by Trossard late on, his presence ensured Athletic never had a moment’s rest. With more time to adapt, his performances could yet add another dimension to Arsenal’s forward line.
Arteta Praises Mentality and Spirit
Speaking after the match, Mikel Arteta was quick to heap praise on Martinelli and his squad as a whole. “Fully deserved it,” the Arsenal manager said. “I adore Gabriel. His attitude, his commitment, his positivity – he’s always willing to do more for the team. That’s the mentality that lifts everyone.”
Arteta emphasised not only Martinelli’s individual brilliance but also the collective spirit within the squad. “That’s the spirit. That’s why I really enjoy every single day working with them. They look after each other, they push each other, and when someone like Gabby delivers, everyone recognises it.”
The Spaniard highlighted the importance of resilience in hostile atmospheres such as Bilbao, where Athletic’s fans created a fevered backdrop. Arsenal’s ability to withstand pressure, before punishing their opponents late on, was precisely the type of response he has demanded from his side in Europe.
Next Test For Arsenal: Manchester City Awaits
Victory in Bilbao marks an encouraging start to Arsenal’s Champions League campaign, but tougher tests lie ahead. Their immediate focus shifts back to the Premier League, where they face Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, September 21.
That fixture will provide the sternest examination yet of Arsenal’s credentials. With Pep Guardiola’s side unbeaten in the league and fierce rivals in the title race, Arteta will need to balance rotation with consistency. The question of who starts in attack – Martinelli, Eze, Gyokeres, or Trossard – may dominate the build-up.
For now, however, Arsenal can take satisfaction from a hard-earned European win that underscored their depth, adaptability, and resilience. Martinelli may not have started the night in Bilbao, but he certainly ended it as the headline act.
