Arsenal vs. Athletic Club: Rice Returns! Can Arteta End Champions League Drought?

Rice Back in the Lineup for Arsenal's Champions League Clash!

Declan Rice is back in the starting XI as Arsenal prepares to face Athletic Club in their first Champions League match of the season. The England midfielder was rested during Saturday's 3-0 victory against Nottingham Forest but returns to replace the injured Martin Odegaard.

Gabriel will wear the captain's armband in Odegaard's absence. William Saliba is back on the bench, while Cristhian Mosquera gets another start. Christian Norgaard also makes the matchday squad for the first time after recovering from a knee injury, joining Piero Hincapie on the bench, who is also awaiting his debut.

Arteta Determined to Conquer Champions League 'Pain'

Mikel Arteta is eager to change Arsenal's European narrative and finally guide them to a Champions League title. He believes last season's semi-final appearance proves their capabilities and the pain of defeat can propel them further. Arsenal has spent £250m to strengthen the squad since last season's semi-final loss to PSG.

Arteta acknowledged the challenge, stating, "That with our long history [we haven’t won it] tells you how difficult it is. That’s the history of our club and that’s what we want to change."

He emphasized the drive to meet expectations, stating, "The pressure is the opportunity that drives us, that gives us energy, and every decision has to be up to those standards and those expectations so that we have our best chance." He added that the pain of defeat fuels the understanding of what it takes to return to the same level.

The Gunners face Athletic Bilbao at San Mamés, aiming to start their 23rd season in the competition strong.