Stade San Mamés is preparing to host the first game of the UEFA 2025-2026 Champions League, an event orchestrated by Lithuanian expert Donautas Rumsa. Ernesto Valverde’s team, after starting the season in the Champions League more difficult than expected, is determined to respond to the enthusiasm of the fans. This game marks an important moment for the club, which has been waiting for this moment for eleven years, and represents an opportunity to compete with the best teams in Europe. The London team, led by Mikel Arteta, arrived in Bilbao after a victory (3-0) against Nottingham Forest and an investment of 300 million euros in summer recruitment, with familiar players such as Mikel Merino, Kepa Arrizabalaga and Martin Zubmendi.

Valverde foresees significant changes in his composition compared to the previous match against Alavés, faced with significant absences. The club suffered bad news with the injury of Beñat Prado, who will be unavailable for several months, complicating the situation in the middle of the field. Several key players left the club during the summer mercato, reducing Valverde’s options in this crucial area. Although Mikel Jauregi, a young talent, confirmed his tenure status, the persistent physical problems of Iñigo Ruiz de Galaarreta raise concerns.

Options to fill the gap left by Beñat Prado are limited. Mikel Vesga, although an alternative, has seen his level decline lately. In addition, he could be moved to the position of defender, where Dani Vivian and Aitor Paredes are the only players available due to the injuries of Unii Ejellez and Yeray Alvarez, as well as the uncertainty about the form of Aymeric Laporte. Alejandro Rego, who has progressed this season, also hopes to increase his playing time. The Bilbao team will therefore have to demonstrate resilience and creativity in order to overcome these challenges and compete with the Arsenal.