Arsenal edge Bilbao opener in San Mames as Martinelli and Trossard spark late win
Arsenal opened their campaign with a gritty win in Bilbao.
The contest was low on quality, but it carried purpose.
Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard emerged from the bench to decide it.
From the first touch, they changed the tempo with sharp runs and precise movement.
Arsenal pressed from the front and kept the tempo disciplined.
Raya started attacks from the back with clean, quick distribution.
Moreover, White and Zinchenko pinned Bilbao into their half whenever possible.
Additionally, precise buildup rotations kept Arsenal on the front foot.
The midfield pivot offered smart ballast, with Rice guarding and guiding the play.
Fullbacks overlapped and created overloads on the flanks.
Athletic Bilbao threatened on the break, but Arsenal soaked pressure and held firm.
Martinelli sparked the late winner, with Trossard heavily involved in the buildup.
Therefore, the win warms the city while bigger tests loom against Spurs, United and City.
TLDR
- Martinelli and Trossard emerge off the bench to decide it.
- Arsenal press high, build from the back, and rely on a smart midfield pivot.
- Tough tests lie ahead against Spurs, United, and City, but belief is growing.
Gabriel Martinelli
Arsenal