“They are one of the favourites” Athletic Club manager puts Arsenal under pressure

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·15 September 2025

“They are one of the favourites” Athletic Club manager puts Arsenal under pressure

Athletic Club manager Ernesto Valverde has added to the pressure on Arsenal ahead of their opening Champions League fixture by suggesting that the Gunners are among the leading contenders to win the competition this season. Arsenal will travel to Spain this week to face Athletic in what promises to be an intriguing opening encounter.

The match is of considerable importance to Mikel Arteta’s side, who will be eager to begin their campaign with a victory. Securing three points in the opening round is often crucial for building confidence and momentum in Europe’s elite tournament. Athletic, meanwhile, having finished within the top five in La Liga last season, will be motivated to perform strongly in front of their home supporters and demonstrate that they can compete against high calibre opposition.

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Arsenal Seen as Champions League Favourites

Expectations surrounding Arsenal remain high, particularly given the quality and depth of their squad. Many observers anticipate that they should be capable of securing a result in Spain, although Valverde’s recent comments have served to heighten attention on the match. Speaking via ESPN, he declared, “Arsenal are totally focused on this match. They are one of the favourites to win the Champions League thanks to their technical and tactical ability, and the winning spirit that Arteta has instilled in them.”

Such words underline the respect with which Arsenal are regarded across Europe. Their combination of organisation, attacking prowess and discipline has been central to their recent progress under Arteta. The challenge now is to translate those qualities consistently onto the continental stage, where even the smallest errors can prove costly.

(Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Embracing the Challenge Ahead

The acknowledgement that Arsenal rank among the favourites inevitably brings added scrutiny, but it also provides an opportunity for the players to demonstrate their credentials. Embracing the responsibility of being viewed as potential champions will be essential if they are to advance deep into the competition.

The squad, together with their manager, will approach the campaign aware of the expectations placed upon them. With the talent at their disposal and the winning mentality cultivated within the team, they will aim to begin their Champions League journey with a performance that reflects their ambition. A victory in Spain would represent not only an important start but also a statement of intent to the rest of Europe.

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