Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard were the match-winners for Arsenal, securing all three points in their Champions League opener, despite a less-than-convincing overall display. Last season, Arsenal won six of eight group stage matches to qualify in third for the knockout rounds, but they found it tough to break down their opponents this time—a side Manchester United had convincingly beaten 7-1 on aggregate in last year’s Europa League semi-finals.
After 70 minutes of largely ineffective play, Martinelli came off the bench and made an instant impact, latching onto a long ball to slot it under goalkeeper Unai Simon. Trossard, another substitute, added a second goal later on thanks to a heavy deflection after being set up by Martinelli.
Summer signings Viktor Gyokeres and Eberechi Eze failed to impress and were both taken off, with Mikel Arteta’s substitutes ultimately turning the game around. Here are Mirror Football’s player ratings from the match in northern Spain:
Arsenal (4-3-3)
David Raya – 6
Had little to do as Arsenal’s defence remained solid, as has become the norm.
Jurrien Timber – 6
Didn’t push forward much from right-back but showed glimpses of why Arteta rates him.
Gabriel Magalhaes – 6
Steady at the back with minimal fuss.
Cristhian Mosquera – 6
The new arrival from Valencia looked composed on his Champions League debut, filling in well for the injured Saliba, though he’ll likely make way once Saliba is fit again.
Riccardo Calafiori – 6
Tried to get forward and drift into midfield, but didn’t contribute much going forward. Eze struggled on that side too.
Martin Zubimendi – 5
Seemed lightweight in midfield and was easily bypassed on a dangerous run. Lost possession before a threatening counter.
Declan Rice – 5
Booked early, which may have limited his usual dynamic style. Did switch the play well a few times with long passes.
Mikel Merino – 6
Largely invisible in midfield. Took a knock in a clash of heads late in the game.
Noni Madueke – 7
Looked sharp throughout and consistently threatened defenders with his dribbling and pace. Arsenal’s standout player until the substitutions changed the game.
Eberechi Eze – 4
Struggled out wide and didn’t contribute much. Missed a good opportunity early on and was replaced by Martinelli, who scored right after coming on.
Viktor Gyokeres – 4
Missed multiple chances, including a one-on-one and a diving header. Suffered a head injury during a collision and was subbed off after a disappointing showing.
Substitutes
Leandro Trossard – 8
Made an instant impact, assisting Martinelli with a clever flick, then scored himself with a deflected shot after a pass from the Brazilian.
Gabriel Martinelli – 8
Scored within 36 seconds of coming on, using his speed to get behind the defence. Though his finish was somewhat lucky, his influence was clear.
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