Martinelli's Foresight Is Arsenal's Factor In Winning The Champions League Premiership

JAKARTA - Gabriel Martinelli revealed that he told his teammates how he would exploit the Athletic Club moments before getting off the bench and bringing Arsenal to victory.

Martinelli only needed 36 seconds and four touches to put Mikel Arteta's men ahead after he received a cross from another substitute, Leandro Trossard.

The Brazilian winger later became a feeder for Trossard with three minutes remaining as Arsenal started their Champions League campaign with three points at Bilbao after a convincing 2-0 win.

"When I came in, I was just trying to get in the back. I wanted to see where I could find the space."

"I've told the players on the bench that there's a huge space behind. Leo saw me, it was a good pass from him, and I was just trying to put the ball into the net."

For the second goal, I wanted to get past my opponent and find someone in the penalty box. I know they are also tired. I managed to find Leo, and he finished the rest," said Martinelli.

The intervention at the last minute from Martinelli and Trossard gave Arsenal the perfect start in Europe, as they tried to continue their journey to last season's semifinals and win the Champions League for the first time in club history.

Meanwhile, Athletic finished fourth in La Liga last season and the host supporters, who celebrated their return to the Champions League for the first time in a decade, gave an unfriendly welcome to Arteta's troops. However, the Gunners were able to overcome that.

"They play at home. So they also play well, but I think we are clinical and deserve to win."

"When you play for Arsenal, you have to win every game. So, it's great to start the season with a win."

"We know how big we are when we have this badge on our chest and with the family we have. We are a big club and we want to win every game," said Martinelli.

Viktor Gyokeres collided with his teammate, Gabriel, in the first half at the San Mates Stadium. He had to wear a bandage for the rest of the match before being replaced by Trossard in the 60th minute.

However, the Swedish player is expected to fit for the Premier League match on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at home to Manchester City.