Athletic Bilbao vs Arsenal Prediction, Preview & Betting Tips | Champions League Matchday 1

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Ben Beard

Co-founder of Tipman and a well-known tipster with over a decade of profitable tracked results. Featured on the Racing Post NAPs table, Ben brings proven expertise and sharp racing insight.

Published Date: September 15, 2025 4:27 PM

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Match Preview ⚽

Fixture: Athletic Bilbao vs Arsenal
Competition: UEFA Champions League, Group Stage
Date & Kick-Off: Tuesday, 16 September 2025 — 17:45 BST (18:45 CEST)
Venue: San Mamés Stadium, Bilbao

Arsenal begin their Champions League campaign with an away trip to Athletic Bilbao. The Gunners are flying domestically, while Bilbao will look to leverage home cover and recent strong showings in LaLiga to surprise. This will be their first competitive meeting, making it a fresh tactical test for both.

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Form Guides

Athletic Bilbao:
Strong start to LaLiga with three wins from four games; however, they were halted by a home defeat to Deportivo Alavés where an own goal cost them points. The absence of Nico Williams is a blow, reducing their attacking options on the wings. Despite this, their structure under Ernesto Valverde remains disciplined.

Arsenal:
A solid beginning in the Premier League: three wins, one loss. The 3-0 win vs Nottingham Forest reinforced their attacking depth. Though injuries have hampered them—Saka, Saliba, Havertz are out; Odegaard and Nørgaard doubts—Arsenal’s squad looks more capable of rotating and coping.

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Head-to-Head & Stats to Know

- - This is the first competitive match between Athletic Bilbao and Arsenal.
  - Bilbao were strong at home early in LaLiga but have shown vulnerability lately, especially in matches where they concede first.
  - Arsenal have conceded only once in their first four Premier League matches. Their ability to score has been strong even without key players.

Team News & Predicted Line-Ups 📝

Athletic Bilbao

Unavailable: Nico Williams (injury), Yeray (suspension), Egiluz and Lekue also out; Prados questionable.
Likely XI (4-2-3-1): Simon; Areso, Vivian, Paredes, Berchiche; Jauregizar, Ruiz de Galarreta; Berenguer, Sancet, Iñaki Williams; Guruzeta

Arsenal

Unavailable: Bukayo Saka (hamstring), Kai Havertz (knee), Gabriel Jesus (knee) definitely out; Saliba (ankle), Nørgaard (knock), Odegaard (shoulder) are doubts.
Likely XI (4-3-3): Raya; Timber, Mosquera, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Rice, Zubimendi, Merino; Madueke, Gyokeres, Martinelli

Key Battles to Watch ⭐

Berenguer / Sancet vs Arsenal’s full-backs — Bilbao will try to exploit wide spaces; Arsenal need tight containment.
Midfield pivot: Rice & Zubimendi vs Ruiz de Galarreta & Jauregizar — Who dictates the tempo will shape attacking rhythm.
Gyokeres’ movement vs Bilbao’s defensive positioning — His physical presence and finishing could unsettle a backline missing its star winger.

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⭐ TipMan Smart Tip ⭐

Arsenal to Win & Both Teams to Score (BTTS + Arsenal Win) — balances Arsenal’s attacking quality with Bilbao’s home threat.

Alternative Value Picks 🎯

Correct Score: Athletic Bilbao 1-3 Arsenal
Anytime Scorer: Viktor Gyokeres — in form and spearheading the Arsenal attack.
Bet Builder: Arsenal HT/FT + BTTS + Over 2.5 Goals

Bilbao vs Arsenal - Tips

16 Sep 17:45 - Athletic vs Arsenal - Champions League

16 Sep 17:45
Athletic vs Arsenal - Champions League

Arsenal Win & BTTS - Yes

Match Result & BTTS

3/1

Reason for Tip

Arsenal’s attacking quality should give them the edge in Bilbao, but Athletic’s intensity and direct play at San Mamés means they’re more than capable of finding the net. The visitors’ creativity and forward depth are expected to prove decisive, but a home goal in response looks likely, making Arsenal & BTTS a strong angle.

16 Sep 17:45 - Athletic vs Arsenal - Champions League

16 Sep 17:45
Athletic vs Arsenal - Champions League

Viktor Gyokeres to Score

Anytime Goalscorer

6/4

Reason for Tip

Gyökeres has quickly become a focal point of Arsenal’s attack with his pace, strength, and clinical finishing. Against Athletic’s aggressive back line, his movement in behind and ability to turn half-chances into goals make him a prime candidate to get on the scoresheet.

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TipMan’s Final Verdict 🏆

Arsenal should start with higher confidence and more offensive firepower. Bilbao are dangerous at San Mamés but weakened by injuries. Expect an Arsenal win, though Bilbao are capable of finding the net.

Predicted Scoreline: Athletic Bilbao 1–3 Arsenal
Best Bet: ⭐ Arsenal to Win & BTTS ⭐

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Where to Watch Bilbao vs Arsenal 📺

UK & Ireland: Champions League coverage via TNT Sports / discovery+
Europe: Local Champions League broadcasters
Bookmaker Live Streams: Available for registered customers
Highlights: Post-match coverage via UEFA and club platforms

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FAQs – Bilbao vs Arsenal

Has Athletic Bilbao ever faced Arsenal competitively before?
No — this is the first competitive fixture between Athletic Bilbao and Arsenal. While both clubs have a rich European pedigree, their paths have never crossed in UEFA competition until now. This historic meeting in the Champions League group stage adds extra intrigue for fans and bettors alike.

What is the kick-off time for Bilbao vs Arsenal?
The match kicks off at 20:00 UK time (21:00 CET) at the iconic San Mamés Stadium, home of Athletic Bilbao. This late-evening Champions League slot ensures prime-time coverage across Europe and maximum atmosphere inside the stadium.

Which key players are injured or suspended?
Bilbao are missing Nico Williams, Yeray, Lekue, and Egiluz, which limits their attacking threat and defensive depth. Arsenal are without Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus, while doubts remain over William Saliba, Martin Ødegaard, and Christian Nørgaard. These absences shape both line-ups significantly and could impact betting markets such as goalscorer odds and BTTS.

Where can I watch Bilbao vs Arsenal live on TV?
UK viewers can watch the match live on TNT Sports / Discovery+, with streaming also available via bookmaker platforms for registered customers. Across Europe, the game will be shown on local Champions League broadcasters, while highlights will be available shortly after full-time on UEFA’s digital channels.

Is Bilbao vs Arsenal likely to be a high-scoring match?
Yes. Arsenal’s attacking firepower — even with injuries — should create plenty of chances, while Bilbao’s high-intensity pressing style often leads to open, end-to-end football. Historically, Arsenal’s away games in Europe average over 2.5 goals, making this fixture a strong candidate for an Over 2.5 Goals selection.

What’s the best betting tip for Bilbao vs Arsenal?
The most appealing angle looks to be Arsenal to Win & BTTS. Bilbao’s San Mamés atmosphere usually inspires at least one home goal, but Arsenal’s superior quality in transition and attack makes them strong favourites. Alternative options include Over 2.5 Goals, Correct Score 1–3 Arsenal, or Anytime Scorer: Gabriel Martinelli.

Who are the key players to watch?
For Bilbao, Iñaki Williams will carry the main threat, using his pace to stretch Arsenal’s defence. Arsenal will rely heavily on Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard, and Declan Rice, with Ødegaard (if fit) key to dictating tempo in midfield.

What are the predicted line-ups?
Bilbao are expected to field their traditional 4-2-3-1 system, while Arsenal are likely to stick with a 4-3-3 despite injuries. Both line-ups will depend heavily on fitness updates closer to kick-off.

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