Arsenal began their Champions League journey with a difficult 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao in Spain, proving that their stronger squad depth is a major advantage. 

After a tough first half with no goals, manager Mikel Arteta brought on Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard, and the two quickly combined to score both goals. 

Martinelli’s goal, just seconds after entering the game, was the highlight, showing the quality of players Arsenal now has in reserve. 

This win secures three vital points for the Gunners and gives.

The match was a classic Champions League battle, with Athletic Bilbao—back in the competition after an 11-year absence—fueled by a passionate crowd. 

The Spanish side pressed hard, forcing Arsenal to rely on solid defense and goalkeeper David Raya to keep a clean sheet through a frustrating first hour. 

New Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres and winger Noni Madueke had chances, but it wasn’t until manager Mikel Arteta turned to his bench that the game changed.

Leandro Trossard entered the game in the 65th minute, followed by Gabriel Martinelli in the 71st. 

Just 36 seconds after coming on, Martinelli latched onto a perfect ball over the top from Trossard, beating his defender with a skillful touch before slotting the opening goal past goalkeeper Unai Simon. 

Martinelli returned the favor in the 86th minute, setting up Trossard, whose deflected shot found the back of the net to seal the 2-0 win. 

This instant impact from the substitutes showcased the versatility and depth Arteta has been seeking.

The victory in Bilbao immediately justified Arsenal’s ambitious summer transfer business, which saw the club sign players for a total outlay of around £250 million. 

Four of these new signings—midfielder Martin Zubimendi, forwards Gyokeres and Eberechi Eze, and debutant defender Cristhian Mosquera—were in the starting lineup. 

The ability to bring on players of the quality of Martinelli and Trossard, even with key players like captain Martin Odegaard and star winger Bukayo Saka unavailable due to injury, proved crucial.

Before the match, manager Mikel Arteta had spoken about needing a full and versatile squad to compete for the Champions League trophy, a competition where Arsenal reached the semi-finals last season before being knocked out by the eventual winners, PSG. 

The team’s new additions provided a solid foundation, especially in the midfield, where Declan Rice partnered with Zubimendi and Merino to ensure defensive stability and a key clean sheet.

This win gives Arsenal three crucial points at the start of the Champions League’s new league phase, where they will face eight different opponents. 

Athletic Bilbao, known for their strong home record in Europe, presented a difficult opening challenge, making the 2-0 result all the more impressive.

The match highlighted Arsenal’s resilience and mental toughness, necessary qualities for a deep European run. 

The victory sets a positive tone as the Gunners prepare to return home for a massive Premier League clash against rivals Manchester City on Sunday. 

The performance demonstrated that Arteta’s squad now has the “impactors” to change a tight game, turning a frustrating away night into a perfect start to their European campaign.