Arsenal delivered a disappointing performance in their Champions League opener, settling for a goalless draw against Atalanta in Bergamo. The Gunners struggled to create significant chances, with Bukayo Saka coming close with a low free-kick in the first half, and Gabriel Martinelli missing a key opportunity at the near post in the second. Overall, Mikel Arteta’s side failed to pose a serious attacking threat.
Atalanta, on the other hand, will feel they missed a chance to take all three points. Arsenal’s David Raya was instrumental, making a remarkable double save to deny Mateo Retegui from the penalty spot and the follow-up. His performance was crucial in ensuring Arsenal left Italy with a point.
This match highlighted several concerns for Arsenal. Despite Atalanta being last season’s Europa League champions, Arsenal would have expected a stronger showing, especially against a team sitting ninth in Serie A and having already lost twice this season.
A significant issue was Thomas Partey’s midfield performance; he struggled with ball retention and was error-prone, almost conceding a penalty with a reckless challenge on Ederson. Thankfully, Raya’s saves spared Partey from further criticism.
Gabriel Martinelli was also ineffective on the left wing, failing to create an attacking threat and wasting Arsenal’s best chance late in the match. His underwhelming display may lead to competition for his starting spot from Raheem Sterling or Leandro Trossard.
Gabriel Jesus, playing as the central striker, was similarly lackluster and was substituted before the hour mark alongside Partey. His performance raised doubts about his role, prompting questions about Arteta’s choice of Kai Havertz in that position.
Arteta has been experimenting with different midfield combinations in the absence of Martin Odegaard due to injury. While he paired Jorginho and Partey against Tottenham, he opted for Havertz centrally in this match. The tactical setup included Havertz and Jesus interchanging roles, but it failed to translate into effective attacking play.
A key consideration for Arteta is whether to give 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri a chance in Odegaard’s absence. Nwaneri, regarded as a promising talent, remained on the bench against Atalanta, but with a challenging match against Manchester City approaching, Arteta may need to utilize him.
The sole bright spot for Arsenal was David Raya’s exceptional performance in goal. His double save was particularly impressive, with former Premier League midfielder Robbie Savage labeling it one of the best he’s seen.
While Arsenal secured a point in Bergamo, this performance exposed several weaknesses as they look ahead to their upcoming Premier League clash with Manchester City. The Gunners will need to enhance their attacking play and overall team cohesion to compete with one of Europe’s top teams.
