Athletic striker Williams insists they’re “not afraid” of Arsenal ahead of UCL clash

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·16 septembre 2025

Athletic striker Williams insists they’re “not afraid” of Arsenal ahead of UCL clash

Arsenal kick off their 2025-26 UEFA Champions League campaign tonight, as they take on Athletic Club at the iconic San Mamés.

Confidence is high in the Arsenal camp following their convincing 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest. That, coupled with their 3–0 victory over Athletic in last August’s Emirates Cup, should give them every reason to feel optimistic.

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Adding to their advantage, it has been confirmed that Athletic’s key man Nico Williams will miss the fixture.

Athletic embracing the challenge

One might assume the La Liga outfit is not relishing a clash with Arsenal, but interestingly, they are.

Having not featured in the Champions League since 2014, and with most of their current squad yet to experience Europe’s top competition, Athletic’s veteran striker Iñaki Williams, who is the older brother of Arsenal’s summer target Nico Williams, spoke with excitement ahead of the match.

“So many of us are looking forward to debuting in the Champions League. For years we have fought for a day like tomorrow and we want to grow our dream,” Williams told reporters, as cited by France24.

“We are not afraid of anyone, it will be a really nice game.”

Williams also expressed disappointment that his younger brother, Nico, will not be part of the occasion.

“I hope I can debut with a win, but it is a pity I cannot do it with Nico.”

Winless in their last two matches, including a 1-0 derby defeat to Alavés over the weekend, Athletic will be desperate to bounce back. But will they?

Arsenal v Athletic Club (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Arsenal hold the edge

If Arsenal show the same ruthlessness they did against Forest, it is hard to see Athletic getting much joy.

With William Saliba returning to the fold and Noni Madueke continuing his fine form, Arsenal should have enough quality to leave Spain with a statement win.

Having reached the Champions League semi-finals last season, only to fall to eventual winners PSG, Arteta’s side will be hoping to go one better this time.

That journey begins tonight, and a strong result in Bilbao would be the perfect start.

What’s your score prediction Gooners? I’m going for 2-0 tonight.

COYG!

Daniel O

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