The Emirates Stadium is set to host a historic encounter as Arsenal take on Athletic Club for the very first time in their histories. Despite both clubs being century-old institutions with rich European legacies, they have never crossed paths in competitive fixtures, friendlies, or continental tournaments—making this clash a brand-new chapter for both sides.
No Past Head-to-Head Record
Unlike many preseason friendlies that revisit old rivalries, this matchup carries a rare novelty: there is no head-to-head record to draw from. The London club and the Basque giants will start with a clean slate, making the game an intriguing tactical and cultural meeting between English and Spanish football traditions.
Tournament Context
The fixture comes as part of the 2025 Emirates Cup, Arsenal’s annual preseason showpiece. The Gunners boast a dominant record in this tournament, having lifted the trophy eight times in its 12 editions, often overcoming high-profile European opposition in the process.
For Athletic Club, this will be their first appearance in the Emirates Cup. The Basque side will be looking to adapt quickly to the London setting and use the match as valuable preparation ahead of their La Liga campaign.
Recent Form
Arsenal have enjoyed a mixed preseason, securing wins against AC Milan (1-0) and Newcastle United (3-2), but suffering defeats to Villarreal and Tottenham Hotspur. Mikel Arteta will be keen to use this match to sharpen his side’s rhythm before the Premier League opener.
Athletic Club arrive in London on the back of a winless preseason run, including five matches without victory and two recent defeats to Liverpool. However, their 2024–25 campaign saw them finish fourth in La Liga and reach the Europa League semi-finals, highlighting their pedigree.
Players to Watch
For Arsenal, new signing Viktor Gyökeres will be a focal point in attack, supported by creative forces like Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard. Athletic will rely on the pace and flair of Nico Williams, alongside the experience of Iñaki Williams and captain Iker Muniain.
What’s at Stake
While preseason friendlies do not carry competitive points, both sides will see this as a crucial test. For Arsenal, it’s about maintaining their Emirates Cup dominance and fine-tuning tactics. For Athletic Club, it’s a chance to break their preseason slump and gain momentum before the demanding Spanish league season.
In summary: The Emirates Cup fixture between Arsenal and Athletic Club promises to be a unique spectacle—a clash of football cultures, styles, and ambitions, with the added intrigue of being their first-ever meeting.