Arsenal Player Ratings vs Athletic Club: Martinelli Shines in Bilbao

Arsenal player ratings vs Athletic Club reveal a night where Gabriel Martinelli proved his worth as the Gunners kicked off their Champions League campaign with a vital 2-0 win in Bilbao. Despite a summer of headline transfers and big-money arrivals, it was the Brazilian forward and Leandro Trossard—both rumored to be on their way out—who made the difference from the bench.

Arsenal’s Attack Stumbles Before Martinelli Strikes

Heading into the match, all eyes were on Arsenal’s revamped attack, which included recent signings Viktor Gyokeres, Eberechi Eze, and Noni Madueke. The trio, acquired for a staggering £170 million, struggled to pierce Athletic Club’s disciplined defense. The Basque side, playing with intensity at San Mames, gave little away in the opening hour, leaving Arsenal frustrated and searching for a spark.

Mikel Arteta’s patience with his starting eleven eventually wore thin, leading to the introduction of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard with just 20 minutes left. The change proved to be a masterstroke.

Gabriel Martinelli: Arsenal’s Super-Sub in Bilbao

Within seconds of entering the contest, Gabriel Martinelli made an immediate impact. Picking up the ball deep in his own half, he embarked on a surging 40-yard run that split open the Athletic defense. With remarkable composure, Martinelli coolly finished past the onrushing goalkeeper to break the deadlock and swing momentum in Arsenal’s favor.

This moment of brilliance underlined Martinelli’s value to the squad. Often overshadowed by new arrivals, his ability to change games from the bench is a quality not easily replaced.

Trossard Seals Victory After Martinelli Assist

As Athletic Club pressed forward in search of an equalizer, Arsenal seized another opportunity to counter. Martinelli was involved once again, this time sliding a precise pass to fellow substitute Leandro Trossard, who fired past the keeper to make it 2-0 with just minutes remaining. The duo’s link-up play was a timely reminder of the depth Arteta possesses within his squad, and how critical squad rotation will be throughout the Champions League campaign.

Arsenal Player Ratings vs Athletic Club

– **Aaron Ramsdale (GK):** 7 – Calm and collected, made crucial saves when called upon.
– **Ben White (RB):** 6.5 – Solid defensively, but struggled to support in attack.
– **William Saliba (CB):** 7.5 – Dominant aerial presence and assured on the ball.
– **Gabriel Magalhães (CB):** 7 – Disciplined performance, matched Athletic’s physicality.
– **Oleksandr Zinchenko (LB):** 6.5 – Steady but offered little going forward.
– **Declan Rice (CM):** 7 – Instrumental in breaking up play and starting attacks.
– **Martin Ødegaard (CM):** 6 – Lacked his usual creative spark as Athletic pressed hard.
– **Eberechi Eze (CM):** 6 – Some neat touches but struggled to influence proceedings.
– **Noni Madueke (RW):** 5.5 – Quiet night, failed to deliver telling crosses.
– **Viktor Gyokeres (ST):** 5 – Blunt in front of goal, could not find space.
– **Gabriel Martinelli (SUB):** 8.5 – Game-changer, scored one and assisted another.
– **Leandro Trossard (SUB):** 7.5 – Energetic cameo, sealed the win late on.

Martinelli’s Impact Offers Arteta Selection Dilemma

This game was a testament to Gabriel Martinelli’s determination and readiness to make an impact, regardless of speculation about his future. While the new signings may eventually justify their price tags, Martinelli reminded everyone why he remains a vital asset for Arsenal. For more news on Arsenal and other Champions League action, visit for more news.

Opinion: Don’t Underestimate Gabriel Martinelli

Gabriel Martinelli’s performance against Athletic Club should give Arteta pause before relegating him to a peripheral role. His explosive pace, directness, and composure in key moments are qualities that Arsenal cannot afford to lose in the intense environment of the Champions League. As the season unfolds, Martinelli’s influence—whether as a starter or super-sub—could prove decisive in Arsenal’s quest for European glory.