Arsenal faces another trial.
Just before the long-awaited Champions League opener, captain Ødegaard and star man Saka are both likely sidelined with injuries.
Last season, a series of injuries cast a shadow over their title challenge, and fans’ concerns are only growing. However, under manager Mikel Arteta, this season’s team has been significantly reinforced and has the strength to fight back against adversity. The clash with Athletic Club will be a stage to test Arsenal’s true intentions.
Key players injured — trials from the start
Arsenal has been struggling with injuries since the beginning of the 2025/26 season. Captain Martin Ødegaard has suffered a recurrence of his shoulder injury, while Bukayo Saka is sidelined with hamstring problems.
Kai Havertz has also undergone knee surgery and faces a lengthy spell out.
Most recently, defensive cornerstone William Saliba was forced off with injury, leaving the team in a battered state heading into the Champions League opener. With memories of last season’s slump following Saka’s absence, fans’ anxiety is understandable.
Valverde: “Arsenal are title contenders”
Meanwhile, Athletic Club manager Ernesto Valverde praised Arsenal, calling them “one of the favorites to win the Champions League.” He highlighted not only their technical and tactical quality but also the winning mentality instilled by Arteta.
He also warned, “They are ruthless,” while describing Arteta as “one of the best managers in the world.” Praise from the opposing coach underlines Arsenal’s current standing, but the gap between that reputation and their injury crisis is stark.
New signings and returning players
There are bright spots too. New signing Martín Zubimendi has made his presence felt in midfield, and Noah Goul is back in full training. In defense, Saliba’s condition remains crucial, though the decision on whether to risk him rests with Arteta.
With a clash against Manchester City looming right after the Champions League opener, risk management will be vital. This is a test of how far the new recruits can fill the voids left by injuries.
A decisive season — Arteta’s project put to the test
Arsenal finished second in the Premier League for three consecutive seasons, narrowly missing out on the title. This season, with the addition of attacking firepower like Viktor Gyökeres, they looked ready to bridge that “final step,” but the loss of key players has once again become a major setback.
Even so, with the structure Arteta has built and the emergence of young talents, the team still has the potential to overcome adversity. How they handle the opener could set the tone for the rest of the season.
Reactions from the Fans 🐾✨
The absence of Saka and Ødegaard is definitely a huge concern 😣.
But with the strength of the new signings and Arteta’s leadership, I believe he’ll keep the team together 💪.
Athletic Bilbao are tough and resilient, but if Arsenal can overcome this match, it could give them massive confidence 🔴⚪️.
Even with so many injuries, Arsenal is a “team that fights as one.”
That’s why we’ll keep supporting them until the very end! 🔥
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