Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hailed the impact of substitutes Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard in their 2-0 win over Athletic Club
Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Athletic Club in the Champions League opener was sealed by substitutes Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard. Martinelli scored the first goal, assisted by Trossard, and then Trossard sealed the win with a deflected effort. Mikel Arteta praised the pair’s impact, saying they made the difference for the team.
Arteta had spoken to Martinelli and Trossard before the match about their role as “finishers” and the importance of impacting the game.
The Arsenal boss was delighted with their performance, highlighting their clinical finishing and ability to create scoring opportunities. “Something that we always discuss is that the finishers have to impact the game, and Gabi and Leo came on to make the difference for the team,” Arteta said.
The win put Arsenal’s squad depth on display, with Martinelli and Trossard proving their worth after coming on from the bench. Arteta emphasised the importance of having players who can make a difference in the game, saying it’s crucial for the team’s success. “When someone is able to win the game in those actions and be so clinical, it’s exactly what we need because the threat can come from different ways and different players,” Arteta added.
The Arsenal boss also praised the impact of summer signings Christian Norgaard and Piero Hincapie, who both made their debuts in stoppage time. Arteta was impressed by their enthusiasm and spirit, saying it’s the kind of attitude the team needs. “Piero [Hincapie] comes in and plays five minutes and so does Christian [Norgaard] and it’s the best five minutes of their lives. That’s the spirit that we need amongst the squad,” Arteta said.
Arsenal’s next match against Manchester City will be a tough test, but Arteta’s team is looking confident after their win over Athletic Club. With the right mindset and squad depth, Arsenal will be hoping to cause an upset and secure another three points.
