Player ratings as Gunners get off to the perfect start in Spain

Arsenal's substitutes make the difference in Bilbao as Arsenal's strength in depth proves too much for Athletic Club
Athletic Club v Arsenal FC - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1
Athletic Club v Arsenal FC - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 | David Ramos/GettyImages
3 of 3

Forwards

Noni Madueke, Robert Navarro
Athletic Club v Arsenal FC - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 | Ion Alcoba Beitia/GettyImages

Eberechi Eze (LW) - 5/10 - Disappointing performance from the newcomer. Still coming to terms with the patterns of play and passing lanes out on the left. Arteta may switch Eze to a more central position over time where he can get on the ball more often.

Viktor Gyökeres (ST) - 5/10 - Failed to take full advantage when running in behind the defence in the first half. Unlucky not to be able to direct Jurriën Timber's first-half cross on target. Gyökeres struggled after a clash of heads with Gabriel left him needing a bandage.

Noni Madueke (RW) - 6.5/10 - Madueke was eye-catching out on the right. He had the beating of his marker throughout the contest. The summer signing was found wanting with his final ball.


Substitutes

  • Gabriel Martinelli - 8/10
  • Leandro Trossard - 8/10
  • Christian Nørgaard - N/A
  • Piero Hincapié - N/A

Player of the match: William Saliba


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