Athletic Club vs Arsenal live: Mikel Arteta’s substitutions make the difference as Gunners win Champions League opener | OneFootball

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Raya and Arteta insist Arsenal have learned from 'painful' UCL semi-final exit

Mikel Arteta's substitutes made the difference as Arsenal overcame the tough test of Athletic Club to get their Champions League campaign off to winning ways.

After what had been a frustrating 70 minutes for the visitors, Gabriel Martinelli was brought off the bench to breathe some life into the game and made an impact within a minute of his introduction.

The Brazilian burst in behind, played through by fellow substitution Leandro Trossard, before slotting past Unai Simon to break the deadlock.

Trossard then doubled Arsenal's lead with three minutes to play - Martinelli this time turning provider - sealing the points and an opening night victory for the Gunners.

Athletic Club vs Arsenal LIVE

Arsenal get Champions League campaign off to winning ways

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(Getty Images)

(AP)

Will Castle16 September 2025 21:00

A wholesome gesture from the game-changer

Will Castle16 September 2025 20:45

FULL-TIME! Athletic Club 0-2 Arsenal

(Getty Images)

(Getty Images)

(Getty Images)

Chris Wilson16 September 2025 19:46

Athletic Club 0-2 Arsenal

90 +5 mins

Half a chance for Bilbao but they can’t pick up on the chance for a promising through ball, before Williams fails to capitalise on a failed clearance from Gabriel.

It’s going to be an opening win for the Gunners.