What Gabriel Martinelli told Arsenal teammates before his decisive display against Athletic Club

What Gabriel Martinelli told Arsenal teammates before his decisive display against Athletic Club

Gabriel Martinelli scored and provided an assist as Arsenal defeated Athletic Bilbao 2-0 in their Champions League group opener on Tuesday night.

The Brazilian explained how he identified Bilbao’s defensive gaps just before coming on as a substitute, which proved crucial in changing the game. Within just 36 seconds and four touches, he latched onto a lofted pass from Leandro Trossard to fire Arsenal into the lead.

Minutes later, Martinelli turned provider, beating his marker before setting up Trossard for the second goal, sealing the win and giving Mikel Arteta’s side the perfect start in Spain.

“When I came on, I just wanted to run in behind and look for space,” Martinelli said. “I told the boys on the bench there was a lot of space there. Leo spotted me with a great ball, and I finished it. For the second, I knew their defenders were tiring, so I tried to beat my man and pick someone out in the box. Leo finished it perfectly.”

The impactful cameos from Martinelli and Trossard delivered Arsenal a confident beginning to their European campaign, as they aim to build on last season’s semi-final appearance and finally lift the Champions League trophy.

Athletic Bilbao, back in the competition for the first time in ten years after finishing fourth in La Liga, gave Arsenal a tough reception at San Mamés.

“They were strong at home, but we were clinical and deserved the win,” Martinelli added. “When you play for Arsenal, you have to aim to win every game. Wearing this badge means a lot, and as a family, we want to keep winning.”

The night also saw a scare for Viktor Gyokeres, who clashed heads with teammate Gabriel in the first half and needed a bandage before being replaced by Trossard on the hour mark. However, the Swedish striker is expected to be fit for Sunday’s Premier League clash with Manchester City.