Arsenal
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Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal side got off to a winning start with a 2-0 victory over Athletic Club in the first leg of their 2025/26 Champions League campaign at the San Mames Stadium.
The Gunners wore a surprisingly unique kit combination of gray shorts with blue shirts against the usual all-blue third away kit, sparking curiosity among fans.
Athletic Club were the home side in the game and Arsenal had to wear their away kit due to a colour clash. However, there’s a slight change to their look.
READ MORE: Arsenal begin Champions League campaign with victory over Athletic Club
Arsenal did not wear this season’s new all-navy blue away kit in its entirety against Athletic Club.
Due to strict UEFA regulations regarding kit clashes, Arsenal had to make an adjustment to their away kit.
Athletic Club’s home colours were deemed too similar to Arsenal’s navy blue away kit. To avoid confusion on the pitch, UEFA mandated a change.
Arsenal opted to wear their navy blue shirts with gray shorts.
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This decision was made to comply with UEFA’s kit clash regulations.
The Gunners have worn alternative shorts in the Champions League before, such as in their round of 16 first-leg tie against PSV Eindhoven last season. On that evening, the Gunners wore their white shorts alongside the popular black away kit, and won the fixture 7-1.
Arsenal players celebrate after Leandro Trossard’s goal in Athletic Bilbao 0-2 Arsenal loss in the Champions League. (Photo credit: Getty images)
The kit choice didn’t affect Arsenal’s performance, as they secured a 2-0 win over Athletic Club.
The win today ensured Arsenal began the league phase of the Champions League on a positive note as Mikel Arteta bids to end the club’s long wait for a major trophy this season.
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