Athletic Club manager Ernesto Valverde hinted that Arsenal’s recent signings, Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino, could give the English side an edge in their upcoming Champions League clash. Both players previously featured for Athletic’s arch‑rivals Real Sociedad, so they are already familiar with the Spanish team’s style of play.
The Champions League match, scheduled for Tuesday, will be Athletic Club’s first game in the competition this season. Arsenal, by contrast, enjoyed a strong run last season, reaching the semi‑finals before being knocked out by Paris Saint‑Germain. Valverde praised Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, calling him “one of the best managers in the world.”
Valverde noted that Zubimendi and Merino’s experience at Real Sociedad should benefit Arsenal, as they are accustomed to a high‑tempo game and possess the resources needed to perform well. He highlighted that both players have made a strong start at Arsenal, with Zubimendi already making an impact despite his recent arrival.
The Athletic Club boss suggested that the newcomers’ familiarity with his team’s playing style could provide an advantage, but he also emphasized that his own squad is well aware of their strengths and weaknesses. The encounter between Athletic Club and Arsenal is expected to be closely contested, with both sides eager to begin the Champions League campaign positively. Valverde’s comments underline the significance of Zubimendi and Merino’s experience and the potential influence they may have on the match’s outcome.
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