Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice respond as it all 'kicks off' at Arsenal
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(Credit: TNT Sports on Youtube/imago)
Aasif Rahman
Wed 17 September 2025 8:57, UK
Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli was in high spirits on social media after making history in the side’s clash against Athletic Club.
Arsenal won their opening game in the Champions League thanks to Martinelli, following his brilliant cameo off the bench that earned a 2-0 win.
Martinelli made history for Arsenal as he scored just 36 seconds after coming on, which is the Gunners’ fastest ever substitute goal in the Champions League.
The Brazilian then turned provider, setting up fellow substitute Leandro Trossard, who sealed the victory with his deflected effort.
Football Insider revealed that Arsenal decided against selling Martinelli this summer, despite being open to his sale earlier in the window, and that decision already appears to be paying off.
Now, the winger shared a passionate and emotional message to the supporters following the victory.
After his performance off the bench, Martinelli posted a positive message on Instagram that drew a reaction from his teammates.
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He posted multiple photos from their trip to Athletic Club and said: “Kicking off the new campaign with a win!!
Thank you for the support”
Teammates such as Mikel Merino and Jurrien Timber reacted with applause emojis, whilst Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus and Declan Rice showed support by liking the message.
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The 24-year-old endured an uncertain start to the season, making just two starts and losing his place to Eberechi Eze.
However, with Eze still adapting to Arteta’s system, Ally McCoist had urged for Martinelli to be brought on against Athletic, and his demand came true, which proved decisive for the Gunners.
Many Arsenal fans called for the club to move Martinelli on due to his frustrating performances last term, where he scored just eight times in the league, but the manager clearly still sees him as part of his plans.
Club statisticsGabriel MartinelliAppearances229Goals52Assists30Gabriel Martinelli at Arsenal
While Trossard also played an important role in the tie, his future at the club is also uncertain.
Football Insider revealed on 11 September that Arsenal are open to letting Trossard leave in upcoming windows to raise funds.
The Belgian had only recently agreed to sign a new deal at the Emirates, but it came without an increase in contract length, leaving the door open for a possible exit sooner rather than later.