Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised his substitutes, describing them as potential “game finishers” after Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard came off the bench to secure a 2-0 victory over Athletic Club in the Champions League.
Both players scored and assisted one another in Spain, underlining the impact of Arsenal’s bench despite a spate of injuries to key stars Martin Ødegaard, Bukayo Saka, and Kai Havertz.
Arteta said the idea of “finishers” was inspired by rugby union, stressing that players coming off the bench could prove even more decisive than starters this season.
“They are at least equally important, or more important,” he said. “The finishers are going to be more important this season sometimes than the starters. We can change the game there, especially with the intensity that we play and teams start to drop off.”
The Spaniard admitted it was difficult leaving players like Martinelli and Trossard out of the starting XI, but said their attitude impressed him.
“Very pleased because it is very difficult emotionally to leave players out,” he said. “I looked on the bench and I looked at him [Martinelli], and in his eyes I saw he was ready. Leo [Trossard] as well. They play with a confidence and that connection between them as well. It is going to be key this season.”
Martinelli, who had been struggling for form and confidence, scored just 36 seconds after coming on — Arsenal’s fastest-ever substitute goal in the Champions League. Trossard, meanwhile, extended his record as the Premier League’s most impactful substitute since joining Arsenal in January 2023, with 14 goal involvements off the bench.
Arteta was particularly delighted for Martinelli, praising his work ethic and resilience.
“I adore Gabi. His attitude, his commitment, his positivity, what he is willing to do for the team. We certainly value all of the quality he has and brings to the team — I am so happy he has decided the game for us in the two actions.”
The celebration after Martinelli’s goal highlighted the unity within the squad, with Riccardo Calafiori pointing to the Brazilian’s name on the back of his shirt in front of supporters.
“That’s the spirit,” Arteta said. “The way they look after each other is genuine. They really want the best for each other, and they recognise someone that works every single day in the manner that Gabi does. Hopefully this gives him the confidence again to go, as he is an outstanding player.”
