Mikel Arteta was full of praise for Gabriel Martinelli after the Brazilian and fellow substitute Leandro Trossard twice combined to seal Arsenal’s Champions League opener with a professional [2-0 win over Athletic Club in Spain.](https://arseblog.news/2025/09/report-athletic-club-0-2-arsenal-inc-goals/)
The Gunners weren’t at their best at San Mames, enduring long spells of pressure, but held firm before striking decisively in the closing stages.
Trossard’s ball over the top released Martinelli, who needed just three touches before sliding past Unai Simon – just 36 seconds after coming on. 15 minutes later, the Brazilian returned the favour, setting up Trossard to squeeze home via a deflection and the post.
Until then, clear chances had been rare. Viktor Gyokeres and Noni Madueke both saw tame efforts saved, but at the other end, Arsenal were rock solid. Gabriel and Cristhian Mosquera’s partnership continues to grow, while Jurrien Timber was his usual dependable self.
For Martinelli, who received a lot of criticism for his performance at Liverpool before the Interlull, it was a timely reminder of his qualities.
“I was sure that Gabi was going to react like that,” Arteta [said afterwards.](https://hayters.com/arteta-hails-outstanding-martinelli/)
“You raise the level for him and he’s going to do that. He’s a player that has such a mentality and is always willing to learn and prove himself. He’s very demanding with himself and these are the moments that are hopefully going to give him the confidence again because he’s an outstanding player.
“He fully deserves it. I adore Gabi – his attitude, his commitment, his positivity, what he’s willing to do for the team.
“We certainly value all the qualities that he has and he brings to the team and I’m so happy that today he’s decided the game for us.”
It didn’t go unnoticed that Martinelli’s teammates were delighted that he was the one to break the deadlock, with left-back Riccardo Calafiori pointedly taking a moment to direct the visiting fans’ attention to the winger’s name and number.
“That’s the spirit,” remarked Arteta. “That’s why I really enjoy every single day working with them and being part of this team because the way they look after each other is genuine.
“They really want the best for each other, and they recognise someone that works every single day in the manner that Gabi does.
“You can go through struggles and through moments and recognise that, and have that capacity to connect with him. I think that will mean a lot to him.”