Arsenal return to the Champions League on Tuesday, traveling to Spain to face Athletic Bilbao in what promises to be a competitive opener. After impressive runs in recent seasons, reaching the quarter-finals in 2024 and the semi-finals in 2025, the Gunners are increasingly being tipped as serious contenders to finally lift Europe’s premier club trophy under Mikel Arteta. Confidence is high in north London following a strong start to the Premier League season, with Arsenal picking up nine points from their opening four matches. Bilbao, meanwhile, are making only their third Champions League appearance since 1992, but have also started their La Liga campaign brightly, mirroring Arsenal’s nine points from four outings.
While this will be the first competitive meeting between the two sides, they faced off in the Emirates Cup this summer, where Arsenal ran out 3-0 winners.
Bilbao’s La Liga form has been solid, including wins over Sevilla, Rayo Vallecano, and Real Betis, though the international break interrupted momentum, resulting in a surprise 1-0 loss to Alaves. Manager Ernesto Valverde’s side will be eager to make a statement in Europe after the setback. For Arsenal, the challenge is to maintain their attacking rhythm in the face of Bilbao’s organized defense. The Gunners’ high pressing and forward movement have looked sharp, but breaking down well-drilled sides remains a test.
A low-scoring affair seems plausible. Arsenal have recently struggled to find the net against disciplined opponents, such as Manchester United (1-0 win) and Liverpool (1-0 loss), while Bilbao’s matches often produce narrow margins. The absence of Bilbao’s key attacker Nico Williams due to an adductor injury further limits their offensive threat. Viktor Gyokeres has found form with three goals in his last four matches, making him a likely candidate to score again.
Even missing key stars like Bukayo Saka, William Saliba, and Kai Havertz, Arsenal dominated Nottingham Forest 3-0 at the weekend, showing depth and attacking quality. Expect Arteta’s side to start their Champions League journey professionally, controlling the game and claiming a solid away victory. Prediction: Athletic Bilbao 0-2 Arsenal.