Arsenal’s man of the match vs Athletic Club might come from an unlikely source

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Arsenal’s man of the match against Nottingham Forest was Martin Zubimendi, but against Athletic Club, the recipient might not be a goalscorer.

Zubimendi was one of Arsenal’s top performers against Forest, scoring two terrific goals to sink the Tricky Trees.

The win over Ange Postecoglou’s side is now a thing of the past, with the Arsenal players looking forward to the Champions League.

Arsenal kick off their Champions League campaign against Athletic Club, who will welcome the Gunners to San Mames.

• READ MORE: Arsenal can set new Champions League record by beating Athletic Club, Mikel Arteta would love it

Arsenal’s man of the match against Athletic Club could be a goalkeeper

Athletic Club are glad that they’re at home to face Arsenal, understanding the threat that the Gunners pose.

It was only in pre-season that the two sides last met, with the North Londoners winning 3-0 at the Emirates.

Arsenal will hope to put in a solid attacking performance to get the better of their opponents on matchday one of the Champions League, but it might be at the other end of the pitch that sparks fly.

There’s no greater motivation for Arsenal’s two goalkeepers than playing Athletic Club.

Why, you might ask?

David Raya is currently second in command for his national team, behind Bilbao’s number one, Unai Simon.

With Luis de la Fuente’s eyes set to take note of what unfolds in the Basque Country, Raya could be more fired up than ever to impress more than his national team rival.

The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, meaning that it’ll take something sensational for the Arsenal goalkeeper to usurp Simon in time, with the answer possibly being simply outplaying the shot-stopper when they meet.

It’s not only Raya who has a greater incentive to play at his best at San Mames, but Kepa Arrizabalaga too, if he gets the chance.

Being a product of Bilbao’s academy and a Basque player, Kepa will undoubtedly be eager to create some more fond memories at his former home.

The Spaniard left Athletic Club in 2018 to sign for Chelsea, handing the club of his heart a remarkable profit upon bidding farewell, sealing a world-record transfer to Stamford Bridge. 

Unexpected rivalry in Arsenal’s clash against Athletic Club

It’s not only between the sticks that could generate attention, but in other areas too.

Manager Ernesto Valverde was complimentary of Mikel Arteta in his pre-match press conference, with a battle to be had on the touchline.

On the pitch, Mikel Merino and Martin Zubimendi could face a cold welcome, as the two former Real Sociedad players face their Basque rivals.

Valverde said Merino and Zubimendi have an advantage, having played against his side many times in La Liga, with the pair clued up on what Bilbao could offer.

It’s set to be a searing atmosphere at San Mames to kick off the 2025/26 Champions League, with the only true focus being on securing an early three points.