Arsenal began its Champions League campaign with a goalless draw and just one point against Europa League champion Atalanta.
Mikel Arteta brought Gabriel Jesus into the side with Kai Havertz dropping down into midfield. Arsenal welcomed back Declan Rice into the team after he had to serve a one-game suspension in the north London derby.
Atalanta started well pressing and trying to shut down passing lanes early. Saka nearly found the back of the net from a free kick, but was denied by goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi early on. The sting was taken out of the game with sloppy passing from both sides early. Atalanta grew into the first half with spells of possession as Arsenal became more and more sloppy in possession.
Straight out of the tunnel, Thomas Partey put Arsenal in immediate trouble giving away a penalty early in the second half. Mateo Retegui stepped up to take the penalty and was denied not once, but twice from David Raya keeping Arsenal in the game.
Atalanta had the upper hand for most of the second half. Arsenal could not find a crucial pass or moment to open a lead. Most of Arsenal's substitutions failed to make a difference off the bench as that creative spark missing from Ødegaard's absence resulted in a toothless attack.
The game ended honors even with both teams walking away with a point and a clean sheet in the Champions League.
