Following the hard-fought draw at Stamford Bridge, Arsenal returned to the Emirates Stadium to face Brentford in a crucial midweek Premier League fixture. With Manchester City having cut the lead to two points with their dramatic 5-4 victory over Fulham, Mikel Arteta's side needed a response to restore their five-point cushion at the top of the table. Brentford, known for their organized approach and ability to frustrate bigger teams, presented a challenge that required focus and clinical finishing.
Mikel Arteta: "After a demanding week, we need to show our professionalism and quality at home. Brentford are well-coached and always make things difficult, but we must impose our game, create chances, and be ruthless in front of goal. Three points tonight are essential to maintain our position at the top."
Arsenal started with intent, and their early pressure paid dividends in the 10th minute. Good link-up play between Noni Madueke, making his first start since September, and Ben White down the right flank created the opening. White delivered a tempting cross from the byline, and Mikel Merino powered home a header to give Arsenal the perfect start. The goal was Merino's fifth of the campaign and his 21st for club and country in 2025, highlighting his growing importance to the team.
The Gunners continued to dominate possession and create opportunities. Bukayo Saka was a constant threat, while the combination of Madueke and White on the right wing proved particularly effective. However, Brentford showed their quality in moments, with Kevin Schade forcing a brilliant fingertip save from Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, who tipped the striker's thumping header onto the bar to preserve Arsenal's lead.
The match took a concerning turn when Cristhian Mosquera landed awkwardly after competing for a high ball and had to be replaced by Jurrien Timber. The injury added to existing concerns with William Saliba and Gabriel already sidelined, raising questions about Arsenal's defensive depth heading into a busy Christmas period.
Arsenal continued to press for a second goal to kill the game, but Brentford's disciplined defensive shape made it difficult to find clear openings. Manager Mikel Arteta introduced Eberechi Eze and Bukayo Saka from the bench in the second half to inject fresh energy and creativity.
The insurance goal finally arrived in second-half stoppage time. In the 90+1 minute, Bukayo Saka latched onto an inch-perfect through ball from Mikel Merino, cutting back onto his left foot to unleash a strike that found the back of the net despite Brentford goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher getting a hand to it. The goal sealed the 2-0 victory and extended Arsenal's unbeaten run to 18 matches across all competitions.
However, celebrations were tempered by another injury concern as Declan Rice went down clutching his calf late in the match. Though he managed to walk off under his own power, the sight of Arsenal's midfield lynchpin in discomfort raised concerns ahead of a tricky trip to Aston Villa and the busy festive schedule.
Mikel Arteta praised his team's professional performance while acknowledging the injury concerns.
Mikel Arteta: "It was a professional display when we needed it most. After City's result, we knew we had to respond, and the players showed great character and quality. Mikel Merino continues to deliver in crucial moments, and Bukayo's late goal gives us breathing room. However, the injuries are a concern, and we'll assess Mosquera and Declan in the coming days. We have a strong squad, and others will need to step up."
Mikel Merino: "Scoring early gave us control, and we managed the game well. Brentford made it difficult, but we stayed patient and got the second goal to secure the win. Now we need to recover quickly and prepare for the next challenge. The Christmas period is demanding, but we're ready."
The Man of the Match award goes to Mikel Merino. His early header set the tone for Arsenal's victory, and his inch-perfect assist for Saka's late goal demonstrated his all-around quality. Merino has now scored 11 Premier League goals and nine in 2025, more than any other Arsenal player in the competition this year. His ability to score crucial goals, create chances, and dominate midfield battles makes him one of Arsenal's most valuable players in the title race.
Arsenal now prepare for a challenging trip to Aston Villa as they look to maintain their position at the top of the Premier League heading into the festive period, though the fitness of Mosquera and Rice will be closely monitored.