Key Takeaways:
- Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard stepped off the bench to score both goals in Arsenal’s win against Athletic Bilbao
- Viktor Gyökeres missed several significant opportunities, and Eberechi Eze struggled to make an impact on the left wing
- Mikel Arteta emphasised after the match that substitute players can prove even more vital than the starting eleven over a season
Match Overview
Mikel Arteta expressed considerable satisfaction with his substitutes as Arsenal secured a hard-fought victory over Athletic Bilbao. The London club encountered problems turning their chances into goals for much of the contest, with Viktor Gyökeres failing to capitalise on several clear opportunities and Eberechi Eze unable to deliver his usual influence from the left flank. Struggling for a breakthrough, Arteta turned to his bench in the second half, introducing Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard, who netted both decisive goals to clinch the win.
Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard SUPER SUBS 👏👏👏 pic.twitter.com/EOUFXL9QGD
— Gunners (@Gunnersc0m) September 16, 2025
Substitute Impact
Arteta highlighted the game-changing contributions from Martinelli and Trossard, both of whom injected renewed intensity and quality into Arsenal’s attack. Their immediate impact turned the tide for the Gunners, with the manager drawing attention to the crucial role that substitutes can play over the course of a demanding campaign. The Spaniard said: “They are at least equally important or more important. We have discussed that the finishers are going to be more important this season, sometimes more than the starters.”
Performance Data
| Player | Role | Notable Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Viktor Gyökeres | Starter | Missed several clear chances |
| Eberechi Eze | Starter | Did not perform to expected level |
| Gabriel Martinelli | Substitute | Scored one of Arsenal’s winning goals |
| Leandro Trossard | Substitute | Scored one of Arsenal’s winning goals |
Manager’s Perspective
Arteta acknowledged how emotionally challenging it can be for players not selected in the starting line-up, yet underlined the necessity of maintaining the right mentality for those called upon during matches. He noted the readiness and confidence displayed by both Martinelli and Trossard, who capitalised on their opportunities to deliver a crucial win. Arteta stressed that this depth and attitude within the squad would prove essential as Arsenal navigates the rest of the season.
