“I just tried to get in behind” – Martinelli on impact vs Bilbao in UCL 2025/26

Overview

• Gabriel Martinelli had a stunning impact in Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao.
• He scored one goal and provided an assist.
• After the game, Martinelli revealed what his plan was when he entered the pitch.

Gabriel Martinelli had a stunning impact in Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao in the UEFA Champions League 2025/26. The Brazilian winger came off the bench to score one goal and provide an assist, sealing an important win for the Gunners in their opening group-stage match.

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After the game, Martinelli revealed what his plan was when he entered the pitch. “When I came on, I just tried to get in behind. I wanted to see where I could find the space. I had said to the guys on the bench that there was a huge space in behind,” he explained.

Describing his goal, he added: “Leo saw me, it was a great ball from him, and I just tried to put the ball in the net. For the second goal, I wanted to go past my man and look to find someone in the box, and I knew they were tired, too. I was able to find Leo, and he did the rest.”

“When you play for Arsenal, you go to win every game" - Martinelli

Despite Arsenal’s controlled performance, Martinelli admitted it was not easy in Bilbao, praising the Spanish side for their effort. “They were playing at home, so they did well too, but I thought we were clinical and deserved to win,” he said.

Looking ahead, the Brazilian emphasised Arsenal’s ambition this season.

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“When you play for Arsenal, you go to win every game, so it is really good to start the campaign with the victory. We know how big we are when we have this badge on our chest, and with the family we have. We are a big club and we want to win every single match.”