Date: 16/09/25
Kick-off time: 17:45
Venue: Estadio San Mamés

The Champions League group stage is back, and it’s throwing up a tasty opener. Athletic Bilbao – back in Europe’s top competition after 11 long years – welcome Arsenal to San Mamés.

For Bilbao, this is more than just a match. It’s a return to the big time, under the lights, in front of one of the most passionate crowds in Spain. Arsenal, meanwhile, arrive with big expectations after last season’s run, but also a growing injury list. So, who makes the perfect start? Let’s dive in.

Athletic Bilbao vs Arsenal Team News

Bilbao don’t have too many problems heading into this one. Inigo Lekue is the only confirmed absentee with a muscle injury. Otherwise, Ernesto Valverde has a full squad to choose from, and that’s massive for a night like this. Expect Nico Williams to be the danger man down the flank, with Gorka Guruzeta leading the line.

Arsenal, though, are sweating on fitness tests. Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus are both out. Bukayo Saka is touch-and-go, and his absence would be a huge blow. William Saliba is also a doubt – if he doesn’t make it, expect Cristhian Mosquera to slot in alongside Gabriel. Ben White and Christian Nørgaard are carrying knocks too. Arteta might have to shuffle his pack more than he’d like.

Likely Lineups

Athletic Bilbao: Unai Simón; De Marcos, Vivian, Paredes, Berchiche; Vesga, Ruiz de Galarreta; Williams, Sancet, Berenguer; Guruzeta

Arsenal: Raya; Tomiyasu, Mosquera, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Rice, Ødegaard, Nørgaard; Martinelli, Trossard, Saka (if fit)

Athletic Bilbao vs Arsenal Betting Tips

Here’s what I think… this game has goals written all over it. Arsenal’s last five away Champions League games all saw both teams score, and Bilbao’s attack has looked sharp early in La Liga. With defensive doubts on both sides, backing “both teams to score” makes a lot of sense.

Arsenal’s away form in Europe is strong – four wins in their last five – and they even beat Real Madrid in their own backyard last season. That kind of experience counts. Bilbao haven’t lost at home in three of their last four European matches, but this is a different level of opponent.

Betting angles worth a look:

• Arsenal to win
• Both teams to score – yes
• Over 2.5 goals
• Leandro Trossard anytime scorer (especially if Saka isn’t fit)

Athletic Bilbao vs Arsenal Match Prediction

Arsenal are going to dominate possession, but Bilbao will have their moments on the break, especially through Nico Williams. The Gunners’ injuries give the home side a real shot, but Arsenal’s quality should still shine through over 90 minutes.

Match Prediction: Arsenal to win. Bet with bet365.

Athletic Bilbao vs Arsenal Correct Score Tips & Prediction

This won’t be a walk in the park for Arsenal, but they’ve got the experience to edge it. With both sides likely to score, a 2-1 Arsenal victory feels like the sweet spot.

Correct Score Prediction: Athletic Bilbao 1-2 Arsenal. Bet with bet365.

Athletic Bilbao vs Arsenal Over & Under Goals Betting Tips

The numbers point towards goals. Arsenal’s Champions League away matches regularly hit over 2.5, and Bilbao’s attacking form suggests they won’t sit back all night.

Over 2.5 looks safe, but if you fancy a bigger price, over 3.5 is worth a look.

Over/Under Prediction: Over 2.5 Goals. Bet with bet365.

Athletic Bilbao vs Arsenal Bet Builder Tip

Here’s a combo I like for this one:

• Arsenal to win
• Both teams to score
• Leandro Trossard anytime scorer
• Over 2.5 goals

That’s your Champions League special – and it ticks all the boxes for how I see this game playing out.

Bet Builder Tip: Arsenal to Win, BTTS Yes, Trossard Anytime Scorer & Over 2.5 Goals. Bet with bet365.

Key Stats

• Arsenal have won 4 of their last 5 away Champions League games.
• Bilbao are unbeaten in 3 of their last 4 home European fixtures.
• Arsenal’s last 5 Champions League away matches all saw both teams score.

Visit our football previews & predictions page for more betting tips on upcoming matches.

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