Mikel Arteta
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal began their Champions League campaign with a statement 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao at the San Mames Stadium on Tuesday night, with Gabriel Martinelli producing a record-breaking display from the bench to secure all three points.
The Brazilian forward, introduced in the 70th minute, needed just 36 seconds to make his mark, scoring the fastest substitute goal in Arsenal’s Champions League history. Latching onto a lofted pass from Leandro Trossard, Martinelli raced through on goal and coolly slotted under Unai Simon to break the deadlock in what had been a tense encounter. Seventeen minutes later, the roles were reversed as Martinelli turned provider, cutting back for Trossard to seal the win with a composed finish.
For much of the evening, Mikel Arteta’s side found it difficult to unlock Ernesto Valverde’s disciplined Basque defence. Summer signing Eberechi Eze was handed a starting role on the left, while Noni Madueke provided flashes of danger on the right, but Arsenal created few clear chances in the first half as Athletic pressed high and limited their attacking flow.
READ MORE: Gabriel Martinelli sets new Arsenal record with 36-second goal at San Mames
The introduction of Trossard and Martinelli, however, transformed the contest. Their immediate impact not only secured victory but also highlighted the squad depth Arteta now has at his disposal. Martinelli’s decisive cameo was recognised with the Player of the Match award.
The MOTM in Arsenal’s first Champions League game of the season.
Gabriel Martinelli. He has his smile back. pic.twitter.com/5WvHxGIrIO
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) September 16, 2025
Speaking afterwards, Arteta was effusive in his praise for the 24-year-old: “Fully deserved it. I adore Gabriel, his attitude, his commitment, his positivity, what he’s willing to do for the team. As a family, we certainly value all the qualities that he has, and he brings to the team.”
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Asked if Martinelli was proving a point after being left out of the starting XI in favour of Eze, Arteta added: “I was sure that Gabby was going to react like that. He has such a mentality, constantly willing to learn. Hopefully this gives him the confidence again to go, because he’s an outstanding player.”
The Gunners also saw positive performances elsewhere. Cristhian Mosquera impressed at centre-back despite William Saliba’s return from injury, while Madueke continued to look sharp in Bukayo Saka’s absence.
With a perfect start in the league phase secured, Arsenal will now look to build momentum as they chase their first-ever Champions League crown and with Martinelli in this kind of form, Arteta has every reason to believe.
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