Arsenal XI vs Athletic Club: Predicted lineup, team news and injury updates ahead of Champions League

Arsenal XI vs Athletic Club: Predicted lineup, team news and injury updates ahead of Champions League clash


The Gunners are dealing with several absences as they begin their Champions League campaign in Bilbao.

Injury situation: Mikel Arteta will be without a number of first-team regulars when Arsenal face Athletic Club tonight.

William Saliba is expected to return after missing the 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest due to an ankle problem. The defender rejoined full training on Monday and travelled with the squad to Spain.

However, Ben White and Martin Odegaard did not train at London Colney and have been ruled out, along with Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz.

Bukayo Saka also remains sidelined as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury, with Arteta admitting there is still no clear timeline for his return.

With Odegaard out, Arteta has choices to make in midfield. Ethan Nwaneri filled in against Forest, but Declan Rice—rested at the weekend—is expected to start.

Saliba’s availability likely means Cristhian Mosquera drops to the bench despite performing well on Saturday.

Up front, Arsenal’s new attacking trio of Noni Madueke, Viktor Gyokeres and Eberechi Eze are set to continue, having impressed against Forest.

Predicted Arsenal XI (4-3-3): Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Rice, Zubimendi, Merino; Madueke, Gyokeres, Eze

Unavailable: Odegaard, Saka, White, Havertz, Jesus
Doubtful: Norgaard

Kick-off: 5:45pm BST, Tuesday September 16, 2025
Venue: San Mamés Stadium, Bilbao

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