Arsenal managed to dig deep and grind out a first win of the season in the Champions League as they overcame the tough test of Athletic Club at San Mames.
The Gunners were under the cosh early on in Spain, as the home side came roaring at them in their first Champions League encounter in 11 years.
As the game went on, Arsenal grew into it, taking control of the tempo in the match and creating a few chances.
[
Click to subscribe to the podcast ](https://www.youtube.com/@BeyondTheBackFour?sub_confirmation=1)
Mikel Arteta did rely on his substitute bench to land all three points, though, as Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard scored in the final 20 minutes.
There has been plenty of reaction to Arsenal beating Athletic Club, including from the opposition club captain, Inaki Williams.
Mikel Arteta speaks to the media before Arsenal's trip away at Athletic Club
Photo by Juanma – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
Inaki Williams claims Gabriel Martinelli goal ended Athletic Club in Arsenal encounter
Arsenal’s squad depth has been a topic of discussion in recent weeks, following a summer of heavy spending.
Eight signings were made, bolstering the team in almost every single position available.
Arteta hinted at the idea of starters and finishers at the club, rather than those who have been dropped to the bench.
It was those finishers who helped win the game, something acknowledged by Athletic Club captain Inaki Williams.
Speaking to the press after the game, he said: “It’s a shame, we were very good until the goal, coming out like this, we’re going to compete in the Champions League.”
“Our pressure in the first half made things very difficult for them. The first goal, coming from substitute Martinelli, was enough to kill us off,” Williams added.
“Despite the goal, we persisted, but our strength was what it took. We should be proud of the 70 minutes against Arsenal, where we made them suffer.
“They had their doubts with quick transitions. This is the way to go in the Champions League; we want to compete. We can’t throw in the towel, and we can stand up to anyone.”
The fact Arsenal were able to compete beyond the 70-minute mark, with strength coming from the bench, is good news for Arteta.
The comments from Williams underline that, and Arteta will be glad to hear the impact his team have had, even with absences.
Mikel Arteta applauds after Athletic Club vs Arsenal
Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images
Arsenal could look at more late winners in important matches
While Arsenal will be looking to put all of the games out of sight, the chances are that they will encounter some close matches across all competitions.
Having that depth won’t just help in dealing with injuries and winning games in general, but it also allows the Gunners to have options late into games.
While some may point to Liverpool’s recent run of wins as luck, they are capable of causing problems for teams late into games because of the quality they have in depth.
Arsenal will hope for a few matches to swing their way in a similar fashion, and having those options will help with that.