Arsenal vs Olympiacos: Arsenal’s October begins with their 2025-26 Champions League debut at home against Olympiacos. This month also represents the Gunners’ ambition for a pivotal moment to overtake Liverpool.
The win at Newcastle last weekend brought Arsenal not only 3 points but also affirmed an invaluable quality: grit. As the Premier League enters highly pressured rounds, Mikel Arteta’s squad has proven they can play attractive football and also stand firm under challenge, supported by a strong defense. William Saliba symbolizes this.
After the match, Saliba spoke about his responsibility and his commitment to Arsenal’s future amid rumors linking him to Real Madrid. The French center-back is expected to extend his contract soon. Alongside Gabriel Magalhaes—who scored in the 6th minute of stoppage time—they form a solid foundation for the team, as Declan Rice praised: "They are the shield that allows us to confidently push forward."
Following that performance, Arsenal approaches their Champions League meeting with Olympiacos with rising momentum. This match is an opportunity for Arsenal to secure maximum points to achieve their Top 8 goal—guaranteeing direct entry to the Round of 16. It is also a chance for Arteta to rotate and experiment while maintaining seriousness. Victory will help Arsenal prolong the excitement built from the Premier League.
Arsenal dreams of topping the Premier League this month
Under the Spanish coach, squad depth is paying off: 10 players have scored in all competitions this season. Players with fewer starts can still play decisive roles, like Leandro Trossard, who has 2 goals and 2 assists despite playing less than 260 minutes.
However, Arsenal’s focus goes beyond the Olympiacos game at Emirates. In London, the dream of surpassing Liverpool is alive. The gap between the teams is currently just one point. The Gunners await a breakthrough in October.
The fixture list is crucial. Arsenal will play two London derbies against West Ham and Fulham—meaning 6 points are within reach if the team maintains the composure shown at St. James' Park. Meanwhile, Liverpool faces Chelsea and Manchester United, both capable of taking points from Klopp’s side. Crystal Palace recently illustrated this. A single slip by Liverpool could quickly reverse fortunes, giving Arsenal a chance not only to catch up but to pull ahead.
Of course, to make this potential a reality, Arsenal must maintain a delicate balance between ambition and caution. Arteta must keep his players grounded. There have been many lessons in the last three seasons, with three consecutive runner-up finishes.
The match against Olympiacos is not just about 3 points and a Champions League return at home. For Arsenal, this fixture is a bridge, a platform for Arteta’s team to continue their journey in challenging Liverpool. Another convincing win will strengthen belief that Arsenal can compete on multiple fronts and has the ability to make October a turning point in the Premier League title race.