But after overcoming the first hurdle against Tottenham on Sunday, it needed a miraculous double save from David Raya to rescue them from defeat in the opening match of their Champions League campaign after a disjointed display that only underlined just how much they are missing captain Martin Ødegaard.
On reflection, the Arsenal manager will be delighted to return to London with a point having seen his side outplayed at times by Atalanta, although it could have been even better had Gabriel Martinelli not wasted a glorious opportunity 10 minutes from full time to snatch the victory. Arteta had insisted before kick-off that Sunday's meeting with Manchester City had no bearing on his team selection. But the continued absence of Ødegaard meant he selected Gabriel Jesus to lead the line after his return from a groin injury, while Kai Havertz was asked to provide the creative spark in support of the Brazil striker.
Three defeats in their five away matches in Europe last season is in stark contrast to their domestic form on the road that has seen them win all but one - the 0-0 draw at City in March. Facing an Atalanta side who enjoyed the greatest European night in their history only 120 days ago when they beat Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League final was never going to be an easy assignment.
This story is from the September 20, 2024 edition of The Guardian.
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This story is from the September 20, 2024 edition of The Guardian.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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