Athletic Bilbao vs Arsenal FC, UEFA Champions League 2025-26, Today Match Prediction

Athletic Bilbao vs Arsenal FC Match Prediction & Analysis

In a matchup between two heavyweight clubs, it will be quite interesting to see which side can gain momentum and potentially have a great start to a deep run. With Arsenal on one side, a club that has won this tournament several times, they will be hungry to come out on top again after a disappointing last season. 

On the other side, Atletico Club keeps their hopes of winning a first UCL. This match will be played on Tuesday, September 16th, at 22:30 IST in a fully packed San Mames stadium in Bilbao. 

TEAMS PREVIEW

Athletic Bilbao Preview

As Athletic Club have started this year red-hot, it’s clear that their main motivation is to finally get the job done and win it all in both UEFA Champions League, plus their own LA Liga. Having a very strong forward in Gorka Guruzeta, he has started the season a little shaky due to an injury, and Maroan Sannadi, one goal, did a terrific job of replacing him. 

Now that the original striker is back, he should make a dangerous combo with two dangerous passers in brothers Inaki plus Nico Williams. As Inaki has 18 progressive passes received to move forward and create chances, his brother leads the team with 19 carries, plus understands the job of bringing it down the pitch. 

Mikel Jaureguizar has also been a great youth piece who provided over 10 elite-level passes and shown off his pace, while Oihan Sancet has already struck another goal as well. Having this group of guys really helps them develop tons of pressure and helps defensive players like Leandro Parades, 3 interceptions, and support star goalie Unai Simon. 

Athletic Club Projected Playing 11 - Unai Simon(GK), Oscar De Marcos(D), Leandro Parades(D), Yuri Berchiche(D), Adama Boiro(D), Inigo Ruiz de Galarreta(MD), Mikel Jaureguizar(MD), Inaki Williams(FW), Nico Williams(FW), Gorka Guruzeta(FW)

Arsenal FC Preview

Arsenal is a side that has shown tremendous consistency, often reaching the latter stages of tournaments but never quite finishing the job. With Bukayo Saka once again leading the team, he's had a strong start to his Premier League campaign, having already scored once. 

His excellence with the ball and ability to handle double-teams have created great opportunities for Viktor Gyokeres, who has scored two goals. Riccardo Calafiori, a great offensive player from a defensive position, may come off the bench to support these two if the team is trailing. 

Noni Madueke currently leads the side with 19 progressive carries and has put in a significant effort to create fast breaks for his striking partners, while midfielder Declan Rice has also contributed 10 top-level passes. 

With Jurrien Timber being a versatile two-way player similar to Calafiori, their defense also features the world-class William Saliba, who has made 13 clearances. With another elite player named Gabriel on that backline, goalkeeper David Raya will be looking for another clean sheet.

Arsenal Projected Playing 11 - David Raya(GK), Jurrien Timber(D), William Saliba(D), Gabriel(D), Myles Lewis-Skelly(D), Martin Odegaard(MD), Matin Zubimendi(MD), Declan Rice(MD), Buyako Saka(FW), Victor Gyokeres(FW), Noni Madeuke(FW

ATHLETIC BILBAO vs ARSENAL FC
Winning Prediction

Based on their current form, Arsenal appears to be a more complete side, with a solid defense and a great striking unit featuring Noni Madueke and Bukayo Saka. Additionally, they have a clear advantage in the midfield and should win this match 3-1.

Arsenal to Win (3-1)

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