Arsenal begin their 2025/26 Champions League league phase with an away trip to Athletic Bilbao at San Mamés on Tuesday. It marks a compelling return for Bilbao to this elite competition after more than a decade away, while Arsenal will be looking to build on a strong start in domestic play and carry momentum into Europe.
Arsenal come into the matchup after a convincing 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest, with Martin Zubimendi bagging a brace and Viktor Gyökeres continuing his impressive start. They’ve won three of their opening four Premier League games and are pushing hard to challenge on all fronts again.
Athletic Bilbao have begun their La Liga season positively, picking up a solid number of points from their first few games. However, a recent surprise defeat exposed some weaknesses. Their attack has shown flashes of promise, but consistency will be key — especially against a talented Arsenal side.
Arsenal could be without captain Martin Ødegaard, who is doubtful after suffering a shoulder problem. Other key absentees include Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus.
Bilbao will also be missing one of their main attacking outlets, Nico Williams, who is sidelined with an adductor injury. Their recent re-signing of Aymeric Laporte boosts their defensive stability, though adjustments to the system will be required.
With several attacking players missing, Arsenal will rely heavily on their new front-line reinforcements: Viktor Gyökeres, Noni Madueke, and Eberechi Eze. Their ability to link up, stretch Bilbao’s defense, and convert chances will be crucial.
Bilbao are expected to be compact and organized, looking to frustrate Arsenal and strike on transitions. Their defensive discipline will be central to their chances of getting a result.
In midfield, Arsenal will need strong performances from Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice, who must provide both control and creativity to ensure the Gunners dominate possession and tempo.
This is Athletic Bilbao’s first Champions League campaign in many years, which brings excitement but also pressure, particularly when facing a team with Arsenal’s recent pedigree in Europe.
Arsenal, on the other hand, have built experience in high-pressure European fixtures and will feel confident of asserting themselves in Spain.
Given their stronger squad depth and recent attacking form, Arsenal are slight favourites to secure at least a point, and possibly a narrow win. Expect a disciplined display from Bilbao, but Arsenal’s quality in the final third may prove decisive.
A likely outcome could be Athletic Bilbao 0-2 Arsenal, though a tight 1-1 draw is also possible if the home side manage to frustrate the visitors.
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