In Arsenal’s recent match against Athletic Club, several key players drew attention for a variety of reasons — notably William Saliba’s inclusion despite fitness concerns, the anticipated debut of Piero Hincapié, Christian Nørgaard’s role off the bench, and Gabriel Martinelli’s continued importance in Mikel Arteta’s front line. The match, likely used as a final pre-season tune-up or early competitive fixture, offered valuable insight into Arsenal’s depth, tactical approach, and the integration of new signings ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
One of the headline decisions was the inclusion of William Saliba in the starting line-up. The French centre-back had reportedly been nursing a minor ankle issue, raising doubts over his participation. However, his presence from the start highlighted Arteta’s trust in him as a defensive leader. Saliba’s composure, positional intelligence, and ability to play out from the back remain crucial to Arsenal’s build-up play. His inclusion also indicated that Arteta is not yet ready to rotate heavily in defence, even in matches that allow some experimentation. If fit, Saliba remains undroppable.
Meanwhile, Piero Hincapié, Arsenal’s recent loan signing from Bayer Leverkusen, was expected by some to make his debut. However, the Ecuadorian defender started on the bench and did not feature prominently, if at all. This suggests that Arteta is taking a cautious approach with the 23-year-old, likely allowing him time to adapt to the team’s tactical demands. Hincapié is known for his versatility, capable of playing as a centre-back or left-back, and his eventual integration could give Arsenal valuable rotation options — particularly in a long season featuring domestic and European competitions.
Christian Nørgaard, another summer arrival, also began the match among the substitutes. The Danish midfielder’s absence from the starting XI likely reflects his status as a depth option rather than an immediate starter. With Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard, and potentially Zubimendi occupying the core midfield roles, Nørgaard might be utilized more as a stabilizing presence in later stages of games or in cup fixtures. His Premier League experience, however, will be invaluable when squad rotation becomes necessary.
Gabriel Martinelli, on the other hand, remains a vital piece of Arsenal’s attacking structure. Starting on the left side of the front three, the Brazilian once again demonstrated why he is so highly rated. His pace, direct dribbling, and off-the-ball movement continuously troubled Athletic Club’s defence. Martinelli’s role in the front line — flanked by Saka and centered around new striker Viktor Gyökeres — seems unchanged from previous seasons. With competition in the Premier League heating up, Arteta will rely heavily on Martinelli’s creativity and finishing to unlock stubborn defences.
Overall, the line-up decisions reflected a balance between stability and gradual integration of new signings. Saliba’s return to the starting XI is encouraging, while Hincapié and Nørgaard will be eased in over time. Martinelli’s consistent performance cements his role