Athletic Bilbao manager Ernesto Valverde has claimed that Arsenal must be considered one of the favourites to win the Champions League this season as his side prepares to face the Gunners in their opening group-stage match.
Mikel Arteta’s men travel to the San Mamés Stadium on Tuesday to kick off their European campaign. Arsenal reached the semi-finals last season, only to be eliminated by eventual winners Paris Saint-Germain.
Valverde Full of Praise for Arsenal
Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated fixture, Valverde praised the quality and mentality of Arteta’s side.
“Arsenal are totally focused on this match.
They are one of the favourites to win the Champions League thanks to their technical and tactical ability, and the winning spirit that Arteta has instilled in them.
It’s the start of the Champions League and we’re playing against a high-level opponent, the kind that Bilbao likes, but we have to be very careful and take advantage of opportunities. Arsenal won’t be forgiving.”
Gearing up for Athletic Club 💪
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) September 15, 2025
📍 Sobha Realty Training Centre pic.twitter.com/XTqhJYy0CU
Bilbao Back in the Champions League After 10 Years
Athletic Bilbao secured a return to Europe’s top-tier competition after finishing fourth in La Liga last season, ending a decade-long absence. Their European journey last term was cut short by Manchester United, who denied them a place in the Europa League final by overcoming Ruben Amorim’s side in the semi-finals.
Bilbao began their new La Liga campaign with three consecutive wins but slipped to a 1-0 home defeat against Alavés on Saturday — a setback they will look to bounce back from against Arsenal.
Inaki Williams on Facing Arsenal
Forward Inaki Williams insisted that his team are determined to make the most of their Champions League opportunity, even as his brother Nico Williams is expected to miss the clash with a groin injury.
“For years we have fought to be where we are.
Tomorrow we are going to fight to keep the dream alive for as long as possible. We are playing against a great team, one that shows no mercy. We have to make the most of the chances we get.
We have no fear. We aspire to go as far as possible. We know it is difficult, but we like to ‘go under the radar’ and hopefully that motto will take us far.”
With Arsenal among the bookmakers’ Champions League favourites and Athletic Bilbao eager to make their mark after a long absence, Tuesday’s clash promises to be a fascinating battle between two ambitious sides.
