Arsenal began their Champions League campaign with a 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao at the San Mamés, thanks to two late goals from substitutes Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard. The match was low on quality for much of the game, but the introduction of Martinelli and Trossard proved decisive.
Martinelli, who came on for Eberechi Eze, scored just 36 seconds after entering the pitch, firing Arsenal into the lead. He then turned provider for Trossard, whose goal put the result beyond doubt. Manager Mikel Arteta praised the impact of his substitutes, noting the genuine care among the squad for each other.
Arteta said: 'The way they look after each other is genuine. They really want the best for each other and they recognise someone that works every single day in the manner that Gabi does.' He added that Martinelli's reaction to being left out of the starting line-up showed his readiness to make an impact.
The win was achieved without seven key players, making the clean sheet and victory all the more impressive. Arsenal's next Champions League fixture is against Olympiacos at the Emirates in two weeks.
