Arsenal is set to face Athletic Bilbao in their final pre-season match at the Emirates Stadium on August 9, 2025, with kickoff scheduled for 5 pm BST. This match serves as crucial preparation for the Gunners ahead of their Premier League campaign, which begins with a challenging away game against Manchester United at Old Trafford on August 17.
Gyokeres' Role and Arteta's Aspirations
All eyes will be on Viktor Gyokeres, Arsenal's high-profile summer signing, as he starts in the match against Athletic Bilbao. The Swedish striker, who cost Arsenal £64 million from Sporting, is still integrating with his new teammates. This pre-season match provides an opportunity for him to build chemistry and find his scoring touch before the Premier League season begins.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is keen to use this final pre-season game to find momentum and fine-tune his squad. He has emphasized the importance of Gyokeres developing connections with his teammates to maximize his effectiveness. Arteta believes that Gyokeres will be in better condition and ready for the Premier League opener after this match.
Pre-Season Performance and Team News
Arsenal's pre-season has been a mixed bag, with wins against AC Milan and Newcastle United during their Asia tour, but also losses to Tottenham and Villarreal. In their most recent game, Arsenal suffered a 3-2 defeat against Villarreal at the Emirates Stadium. Despite the loss, young talent Max Dowman has emerged as a bright spark, likely to feature for the Gunners this season.
In terms of team news, Riccardo Calafiori and Leandro Trossard are expected to return after recovering from minor injuries. However, Gabriel Jesus remains sidelined with an ACL injury, and Kai Havertz's fitness is uncertain. Noni Madueke, another new signing, is likely to start as he adapts to Arsenal's style of play.
Athletic Bilbao's Perspective
Athletic Bilbao has had a tough pre-season, losing five of their six games. The Basque side will be looking to regain confidence and shake off their poor form against Arsenal. Key players for Athletic Bilbao include the Williams brothers, Nico and Iñaki, and playmaker Oihan Sancet. New right-back Jesús Areso is also expected to start as he integrates into the squad.
Arsenal's Premier League Campaign
Arsenal's 2025/26 Premier League season begins with a challenging away fixture against Manchester United. This is followed by a home game against newly-promoted Leeds United. A difficult start continues with a trip to Anfield to face champions Liverpool. Arsenal finished as Premier League runners-up for the third consecutive season. The Gunners are aiming to win their first Premier League title since 2004.
Match Details
The Arsenal vs. Athletic Bilbao match will take place on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at the Emirates Stadium in London. Kick-off is scheduled for 5 pm BST. The match will not be broadcast live on UK television channels. However, it will be streamed live on Arsenal.com and the official Arsenal app for a fee. The stream will not be available in Spain.
