Arsenal favourites for UCL? Athletic boss says so

Ernesto Valverde labels Arsenal "one of the favourites" ahead of the San Mamés opener. Punters may back Arsenal in match-winner markets or a -0.5 Asian handicap, but Athletic's strong domestic start and home advantage offer value on a draw or both-teams-to-score markets. Consider a small stake on Athletic draw/no bet for extra security.

Valverde hails Arsenal as Champions League favourites ahead of San Mamés showdown

Ernesto Valverde has warned his Athletic Bilbao side that Arsenal must be regarded among the favourites for this season's Champions League, ahead of their opening group-stage meeting at San Mamés. Valverde praised Mikel Arteta's team for their technical quality, tactical discipline and winning mentality, urging his players to stay cautious and seize any chances on Tuesday.

Managerial respect: "Arsenal are totally focused"

Valverde insisted Arsenal arrive fully focused and ready for high-level competition. "They are one of the favourites to win the Champions League thanks to their technical and tactical ability, and the winning spirit that Arteta has instilled in them," he said, warning that Bilbao must be careful and take advantage of opportunities because "Arsenal won't be forgiving."

Athletic's return to Europe's elite

Athletic Bilbao return to the Champions League after finishing fourth in LaLiga, ending a decade-long absence from Europe's top tier. The club's resurgence has been marked by a determined domestic campaign and a belief in their ability to challenge stronger opponents on the continental stage.

Form guide and injury notes

Athletic began the new LaLiga season with three straight wins before suffering a 1-0 home defeat to Alavés at the weekend. Squad availability could be affected by a groin injury that looks set to sideline a key player, though the manager expects the team to "fight to keep the dream alive" and embrace the under-the-radar mentality that has driven recent success.

What this means for betting markets

Valverde's public praise boosts Arsenal's status as pre-match favourites, making a straight Arsenal win or a -0.5 Asian handicap the sensible favourites in match betting. However, Athletic's home form and recent momentum create value opportunities for a draw or both-teams-to-score markets; a cautious punter might consider draw/no bet on Athletic for reduced risk.

Arsenal must be considered as one of the favourites to win the Champions League this season, Athletic Club manager Ernesto Valverde has claimed.

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