Arsenal began their Champions League campaign with a commanding 2–0 victory over Athletic Club at San Mamés. The Gunners showed patience and composure before sealing the game late on through Leandro Trossard’s brilliance.

After a tense first half in which both sides created openings but failed to capitalize, Arsenal grew stronger in the second half. The breakthrough arrived in the 71st minute when Gabriel Martinelli’s clever play set up Trossard, who finished clinically to give the visitors the lead.

Athletic pushed for an equalizer, but Arsenal’s defense held firm, denying the Basque side any clear chances. With five minutes left on the clock, Trossard struck again, once more assisted by Martinelli, to secure the win and silence the home crowd.

It was a professional display from Mikel Arteta’s side, who showed discipline at the back and ruthless efficiency in attack. For Athletic Club, the defeat is a setback on home soil, leaving them with work to do in the group stage.

Arsenal leave Bilbao with three points, a clean sheet, and the confidence of a strong start to their European journey.