New Signings Gyokeres, Madueke & Eze Lead Gunners’ Fresh European Charge
Arsenal Ready for Champions League Kickoff Against Athletic Bilbao
Arsenal kick off their UEFA Champions League campaign on Tuesday against Athletic Bilbao, armed with a revamped attacking force that has already shown sparks of brilliance in the Premier League. After falling short in both the Champions League semi-finals and finishing second in the Premier League last season, Mikel Arteta has turned to an aggressive summer overhaul to finally secure silverware.
Gunners’ Summer Signings Reshape the Attack
The Gunners’ attacking options have been transformed following key signings in the transfer window:
- Viktor Gyokeres (Sweden striker)
- Noni Madueke (England winger)
- Eberechi Eze (England midfielder/winger)
With injuries ruling out Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Kai Havertz, the new trio has stepped up immediately.
Instant Impact in the Premier League
In a dominant 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest, all of Arsenal’s summer additions impressed:
- Gyokeres scored his third goal in four matches
- Eze, making his full debut, delivered an assist and was electric on the left wing
- Madueke continued his excellent form in Saka’s absence
- Martin Zubimendi, the Spanish midfielder signed from Real Sociedad, also added two goals — his first for Arsenal
Injury Worries Ahead of European Clash
One concern for Arteta is Martin Odegaard, who limped off with a shoulder injury after just 17 minutes against Forest. While not ruled out yet, his availability for Tuesday’s match remains uncertain.
“We have to assess him with the doctors and see, but I’m sure he will try his best to be fit for Tuesday,” Arteta said.
Should Odegaard miss out, Eze is expected to take on more responsibility as a creator in midfield.
Eze’s Redemption Story
Eze’s journey makes the occasion even more meaningful. Released by Arsenal at 13 years old, he’s returned to the club after a breakout season at Crystal Palace, which included a starring role in their FA Cup win.
“It’s fun for me. This is why I play football,” Eze said.
“These are the types of opportunities you dream of. It’s special — not everyone gets to experience this.”
The 26-year-old is now set for his Champions League debut, completing a full-circle moment in his career.
Can Arsenal Finally Deliver?
Despite spending heavily in recent seasons, Arsenal have not won a major trophy since 2020 and haven’t lifted the Premier League since 2004 or the Champions League ever.
With a refreshed attack and strong early-season form, Arteta faces rising pressure to turn promise into silverware — starting with a strong showing in Europe.
“It doesn’t matter what we want to do, it is what we have to do,” said Arteta.
