With the score tied at 0-0 in the 72nd minute, Martinelli replaced $90 million signing Eberechi Eze. Just 36 seconds later, on his first touch, the Brazilian forward made an immediate impact, scoring the opening goal. This was the fastest goal scored by an Arsenal substitute in their Champions League history.
In the 87th minute, Martinelli shone again, embarking on a solo run down the left wing before setting up Leandro Trossard – who had come on for Victor Gyokeres – to finish from close range and seal a 2-0 victory.
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Gabriel Martinelli celebrates his opening goal in Arsenal's 2-0 win over Bilbao in their first Champions League match at San Mames, Basque Country, Spain, 16/9/2025. Photo: Reuters |
Gabriel Martinelli celebrates his opening goal in Arsenal's 2-0 win over Bilbao in their first Champions League match at San Mames, Basque Country, Spain, 16/9/2025. Photo: Reuters
"I admire Martinelli," Arteta praised his player after the match. "His attitude, spirit, positivity, and commitment to the team are commendable. I was sure Martinelli would react this way because he has a strong mentality, is always demanding of himself, and never stops learning. Hopefully, this goal will give him more confidence because he is an excellent player."
The Spanish manager also praised Trossard, emphasizing the crucial role of substitutes. "I don't like to call them substitutes, I call them finishers," he said. "They are at least as important as, if not more important than, anyone else in the squad. This season, the finishers will decide many games."
Arteta was particularly impressed with how the whole team celebrated with Martinelli. "That's team spirit," the 43-year-old manager expressed. "They genuinely want the best for each other and recognize Martinelli's daily effort. I am delighted to work with this group."
Arteta stressed the difficulty of selecting a starting lineup and leaving players out. "They all yearn to play in the Champions League. Every time I announce the lineup, I disappoint several players. It hurts me, but my job is to make decisions that increase our chances of winning," he said.
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Gabriel Martinelli receives the Man of the Match award. Photo: UEFA |
Gabriel Martinelli receives the Man of the Match award. Photo: UEFA
Martinelli's impressive performance in the final 20 minutes earned him the Man of the Match award. After receiving the award, the 24-year-old forward expressed his satisfaction at being able to come on, score, and assist, helping the club overcome a difficult period and secure the victory.
Martinelli revealed that he had noticed the space behind Bilbao's defense while watching from the bench. "As soon as I came on, I looked to exploit it," the Brazilian said. "Trossard's pass was excellent, and my job was simply to put the ball in the net. For the second goal, I just tried to get past the defender and cross, and Trossard finished the job."
Hong Duy (Guardian, Arsenal FC)
