Arsenal kick off their 2025/26 UEFA Champions League campaign on Tuesday evening with a trip to San Mamés to face Athletic Bilbao. The Gunners return to European action looking to build on last season’s impressive run to the semi-finals, where they fell just short of a first-ever triumph in the competition.
Mikel Arteta’s men head into the clash on the back of a confidence-boosting 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. New signing Martin Zubimendi starred with a brace, including a spectacular volley, while Viktor Gyokeres also found the net. Arsenal will now hope to carry that momentum into Europe.
Bilbao, meanwhile, suffered a disappointing 1-0 home defeat to Deportivo Alavés last time out and will be eager to respond. This is their first appearance in the Champions League for over a decade, and Ernesto Valverde’s side will want to make a strong impression in front of their home supporters.
Predicted Athletic Bilbao lineup vs Arsenal: Simon; Areso, Vivian, Paredes, Berchiche; Vesga, Jauregizar; I. Williams, Sancet, Berenguer; Sannadi
Predicted Arsenal lineup vs Athletic Bilbao: Raya; Timber, Mosquera, Gabriel, Calafiori; Nwaneri, Zubimendi, Rice; Madueke, Gyokeres, Eze
Prediction
With key players missing for both sides, this contest may hinge on Arsenal’s midfield control and attacking efficiency. Bilbao will rely on Iñaki Williams and Oihan Sancet to trouble the visitors, but Arsenal’s superior depth and recent form could prove decisive.
Prediction: Athletic Bilbao 1-2 Arsenal
