Arsenal faces an injury setback with Martin Odegaard ruled out of their Champions League opener against Athletic Bilbao due to a shoulder injury. This presents a challenge for the team as they seek to maintain momentum in both domestic and European competitions.
Arsenal's preparations for their Champions League opener against Athletic Bilbao have been disrupted by a significant injury concern. The Gunners, fresh from a 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest in the Premier League, now face the challenge of navigating their European campaign without a key player.
Martin Odegaard, the influential midfielder, sustained a shoulder injury during the win against Nottingham Forest. This setback is alarmingly similar to the injury he suffered against Leeds United last month, casting a shadow over his availability.
Odegaard was visibly hampered by the injury and had to be substituted in the first half, leaving fans and manager alike concerned about the severity of the issue. Initial assessments have confirmed that Odegaard has not traveled with the squad to the Basque Country, ruling him out of the crucial Champions League match.
His absence presents a tactical conundrum for the manager, who must now decide how to fill the void in the number 10 role. Ethan Nwaneri has been an option in that position, but there's speculation that Eberechi Eze could be given the nod. Eze's versatility and attacking prowess could provide a different dimension to Arsenal's attack.
The potential inclusion of Gabriel Martinelli on the left wing could further influence the manager's decision. Martinelli's return would allow Eze to occupy his preferred attacking midfield role, potentially unlocking Arsenal's creative potential.
Arsenal are considered strong contenders to progress to the knockout stages of the Champions League, and a victory against Athletic Bilbao would provide a significant boost to their ambitions. However, they must overcome this latest injury setback. The team's depth and tactical flexibility will be tested as they seek to maintain their momentum in both domestic and European competitions.
The injury to Odegaard is undoubtedly a blow, but it also presents an opportunity for other players to step up and stake their claim for a regular place in the starting eleven. Nwaneri, Eze, and Martinelli will be eager to impress and demonstrate their ability to contribute to the team's success.
Here's a possible lineup:
Arsenal: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Rice, Havertz, Vieira; Saka, Jesus, Martinelli
Athletic Bilbao: Simon; Lekue, Vivian, Paredes, Berchiche; Ruiz de Galarreta, Vesga; I. Williams, Sancet, N. Williams; Guruzeta
With a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents, Arsenal possess the quality and determination to overcome this challenge and secure a positive result against Athletic Bilbao.
The game is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, Sept. 20th, 2025, at San Mames Stadium in Bilbao.
Arsenal will aim to dominate possession and dictate the tempo of the match, while Athletic Bilbao are likely to adopt a more counter-attacking approach. The Gunners' ability to break down their opponents' defense and create scoring opportunities will be crucial to their success. They will need to be clinical in front of goal and avoid any defensive lapses that could allow Athletic Bilbao to capitalize.
The atmosphere at the San Mames Stadium is expected to be electric, with the home fans creating a cauldron of noise in support of their team. Arsenal will need to remain focused and composed under pressure, displaying the mental fortitude required to succeed in the Champions League. It will be a stern test of Arsenal's resolve, but it's a challenge they must embrace if they are to achieve their ambitions in the competition.
Ultimately, Arsenal's success in this match, and in the Champions League as a whole, will depend on their ability to combine individual brilliance with collective effort. They will need to work together as a team, supporting each other and executing their game plan to perfection.