The Terror of Arsenal's "Finishers"

LONDON, TUESDAY — Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta's statement regarding the label "finishers" is not mere rhetoric. The contributions of Arsenal's substitute players have proven capable of compensating for the roles of the starters. This asset has become a key factor in ending the poor home record against Olympiakos.

"The finishers," this is how Arteta described the eleven players on the field at the end of the match. This label emerged after the attacking duo of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard inspired a victory over Athletic Bilbao from the bench, in the first match of the Champions League group stage.

According to Arteta, the role of "finishers" is more important than that of starters. Who would have thought that this statement was not merely to maintain the happiness of the substitute players? The Arsenal substitutes are truly in the spotlight ahead of their match against Olympiakos in the second round of the Champions League at the Emirates Stadium, London, Thursday (2/10/2025) at 02:00 WIB.

Eight of the last nine goals scored by Arsenal were created in the second half and involved substitute players. Most recently, in a dramatic victory over Newcastle United last weekend, the super subs in action were the midfield duo Martin Odegaard (one assist) and Mikel Merino (one goal).

"I have to make some adjustments and substitutions for various reasons. The players who came in are truly focused. My task is to win the match for the team, and they all did it exceptionally well," said Arteta after the match against Newcastle.

Unlike in previous seasons, Arteta has been very reactive to player substitutions. He has repeatedly brought in substitutes immediately after halftime, just after 45 minutes. Typically, the manager retains the starting players until at least the 70th minute.

Arteta has an extraordinary squad. I believe he has the best squad in the league. Only Arsenal and Liverpool are the teams I see capable of winning the league.

The change in match management style occurred thanks to the depth of Arsenal's squad, which is significantly better. They have two players of equal quality in every position. As many as 17 players from "The Gunners" have played at least five times in eight matches across all competitions since the beginning of the season.

Several key players from last season, such as Martinelli and Trossard, more frequently started matches from the bench. Interestingly, they contributed more when coming on as substitutes. All contributions from Martinelli (2 goals, 1 assist) and Trossard (2 goals, 2 assists) were made while not being starters.

Only defender Gabriel Magalhaes has played in every match this season. "Arteta has an extraordinary squad. I think he has the best squad in the league. Only Arsenal and Liverpool are the teams I see capable of winning the league," said former England national team defender Gary Neville on Sky Sports.

Arsenal needs similar contributions from the "finishers" to end their poor record against Olympiakos at the Emirates Stadium. The Greek team has visited Arsenal's home three times in the last decade. They returned as winners in all of those visits.

"Si Meriam" has already been led by Arteta when they lost twice to Olympiakos in the home matches of the Europa League knockout stage in the 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons. This season, the quality of Olympiakos is significantly below that of Arsenal. However, the visiting team is currently on a positive trend, remaining unbeaten in the Greek League.

Olympiakos arrives this time with Moroccan national team striker Ayoub El Kaabi, who has scored three goals this season. The team, coached by José Luis Mendilibar, carries great ambition after last appearing in the Champions League group stage in the 2020-21 season.

Saliba's Contract

Meanwhile, the upcoming match will feel very special for Arsenal defender William Saliba. The French national team player has just signed a new contract until 2030 on Tuesday afternoon WIB. This contract represents his full commitment amid rumors of interest from Real Madrid.

"I feel very proud of myself because I signed my first contract in 2019. Now in 2025, I am still here to extend my contract. I feel at home. We have a great team and staff. This is the best place to play," said Saliba.

Saliba, 24 years old, promises a better performance this season. Unlike the previous season, he will not be forced to play in every match. Arsenal has brought in young defender Cristhian Mosquera, who can serve as both a backup and a competitor for Saliba.

Arteta stated that the extension of Saliba's contract will automatically boost energy in the locker room. "William is loved by all the players and staff. He also has a strong bond with the supporters. We know there is still much to come from him," he said. (AP/REUTERS)