Mikel Arteta's Arsenal are entering the 2025/26 Champions League season with renewed ambition, and a tactical evolution that could prove to be their "cutting edge" in the competition. After a semi-final finish last season, Arteta is aware of the challenge, stating that success in the Champions League often involves "fail[ing] much more than you succeed". However, recent performances and strategic squad building suggest Arsenal are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of European football.
A key element of Arsenal's Champions League strategy appears to be the deployment of impactful substitutes, or as Arteta prefers to call them, "finishers". This approach was recently highlighted in their opening Champions League match against Athletic Club, where second-half goals from Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard secured a 2-0 victory. Arteta praised the pair for being "ready, willing and able to make an impact when called upon". He emphasized the importance of these players being clinical and able to "win the game in those actions". The manager believes that this depth and the positive attitude of players like Piero Hincapie and Christian Norgaard, who are ready to make the most of even limited minutes, will be crucial for a successful season.
Arsenal's squad depth has been significantly strengthened through strategic acquisitions. The addition of Martin Zubimendi is viewed as a particularly shrewd move, potentially freeing up Declan Rice to contribute more in attacking areas. Eberechi Eze is also expected to provide Arteta with tactical flexibility, capable of playing in multiple positions and linking up effectively with other attacking players. Further bolstering the squad are players like Viktor Gyökeres.
The Gunners' squad for the Champions League includes:
Arsenal's recent match against Athletic Club saw Declan Rice return to the starting lineup, replacing the injured Martin Odegaard. The team's strong defensive record in the domestic league, combined with their attacking options, provides a solid foundation for their European campaign.
While acknowledging the inherent challenges of the Champions League, Arteta has expressed his determination to "rewrite their own history" in the competition. The focus on "finishers," strategic squad additions, and tactical flexibility suggests that Arsenal are well-prepared to compete at the highest level. The Gunners aim to combine strong defensive organization with attacking efficiency to secure positive results.
