UCL: Athletic Club v Arsenal

Doors open at 12p.

Arsenal arrive in Bilbao keen to make a statement in their Champions League league stage opener, still smarting from last season’s semi-final exit to Paris Saint-Germain but bolstered by some encouraging signs in the early weeks of the Premier League. Last time out, the Gunners thumped Nottingham Forest 3-0, with Martin Zubimendi grabbing a brace and Viktor Gyökeres also on the score sheet. While injuries continue to nag, the depth of the squad and the recent form in attack– the willingness to press, to move the ball, to use width– will give Arteta hope that they can overcome a tough trip to San Mamés and open the competition with three points. There’s also a psychological edge: Arsenal rarely get off to slow starts under Arteta in Europe, and they will want to show that last season’s run was no fluke.

Meanwhile, paper underdogs Athletic Club will lean heavily on their home ground and Basque identity to try to unsettle their guests. With three wins from four, Ernesto Valverde's side have enjoyed a solid start to their La Liga campaign. Defeat last time out to Alavés at home exposed vulnerabilities, especially when pressed high. Defensive organisation, intensity, and capacity to frustrate will be the key weapons for The Lions– if they can limit Arsenal’s attacking combinations and avoid conceding on counter‐attacks, they might force a tight game, perhaps even snatch something unexpected. However, in addition to several contributors missing out via long-term injury or suspension, star winger Nico Williams is a doubt due to a muscle issue.

With the early time slot, this one is well-placed for taking a long lunch with your fellow Gooners. See you at Dillon's!

VCC UTA KEEP THE FAITH ✊