The beginning of each UEFA Champions League season restores the true rhythm of a European campaign, in which the continent's top teams mix in competition against each other and undergo new litmus tests as they aim to answer one question: Does their ambition match the ability to pull off their goals?

Mikel Arteta has told Arsenal's players that they are going to Manchester City this Sunday to win, according to Declan Rice. The two Premier League title contenders played out a cagey goalless draw back in March, but Rice has suggested that the Gunners will attack the reigning champions with a different game plan this time around.

Atalanta were glorious winners of the Europa League, boxing off Bayer Leverkusen in Dublin. Gian Piero Gasperini is one of the wiliest foxes ever to do it. And he’s back for more. And Arsenal are, well,