Arsenal are already turning their focus to Sunday’s showdown with Manchester City, coming just days after their 2-0 victory away to Athletic Club. The Gunners made a strong start to their Champions League campaign, with late strikes from substitutes Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard sealing the win in Bilbao.
While the match proved trickier than many fans might have anticipated, it highlighted the strength in depth Arteta has at his disposal. The Arsenal boss now faces some difficult selection decisions, especially in midfield, ahead of City’s visit to the Emirates.
One of the club’s summer arrivals, Cristhian Mosquera, caught the eye with his display at San Mamés, drawing praise from a team-mate, though an Arsenal legend also questioned one of Arteta’s tactical calls during the game.
Cristhian Mosquera’s display
Mosquera, signed from Valencia for £13m this summer, looked assured on his Champions League debut as he once again deputised for William Saliba. The 21-year-old slotted in seamlessly alongside Gabriel Magalhães for a second consecutive game, earning plaudits from full-back Jurrien Timber.
“He’s amazing,” Timber told TNT Sports after the win. “For someone so young, the way he comes in makes it look easy – winning his duels and staying calm on the ball.”
