PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEW: BRENTFORD VS ARSENAL
The Premier League is back in action, and what a way to kick off 2025 – with a thrilling matchup between Brentford and Arsenal! The Bees have been buzzing at home, boasting the joint-best home record in the Premier League, with 22 of their 25 points earned at the Gtech Community Stadium. They’ve also been prolific in front of goal, scoring 25 goals in nine home games.
Thomas Frank’s side has been a force to be reckoned with on their home turf, and they’ll be looking to exploit Arsenal’s weaknesses in front of their vocal supporters. The Bees have been particularly effective at set pieces, scoring 10 goals from dead-ball situations this season.
However, Arsenal is looking fierce, having remained unbeaten in all 10 of their Premier League London derby matches in 2024. They’ve also got a strong record against Brentford, winning their last three meetings in all competitions at the Gtech Community Stadium.
The Gunners will be without star player Bukayo Saka, who’s undergone hamstring surgery, but Kai Havertz is expected to step up and fill the void. Havertz has been in impressive form, with 15 goal involvements from just 25 games in all competitions.
Mikel Arteta’s side has been one of the most consistent teams in the Premier League this season, and they’ll be looking to start 2025 on a high note. Arsenal’s attack has been firing on all cylinders, with Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah forming a deadly partnership up front.
Brentford, on the other hand, will be looking to exploit Arsenal’s weaknesses, particularly with their former teammate David Raya in goal. The Bees will need to be wary of Arsenal’s set-piece threat, with the Gunners boasting the best set-piece record in the Premier League.
Key Stats:
- Brentford’s Home Form: 22 points from 9 home games, with 25 goals scored
- Arsenal’s London Derby Record: Unbeaten in 10 Premier League London derby matches in 2024
- Kai Havertz’s Form: 15 goal involvements from 25 games in all competitions
Head-to-Head:
- Brentford Wins: 0
- Arsenal Wins: 3
- Draws: 0
Injury News:
- Brentford: Christian Norgaard (doubtful), Pontus Jansson (doubtful)
- Arsenal: Bukayo Saka (out), Emile Smith Rowe (doubtful)
It’s shaping up to be an exciting encounter, with both teams looking to start 2025 on a high note. Will Brentford’s home advantage prove too much for Arsenal, or will the Gunners’ quality shine through? One thing’s for sure – this is a match you won’t want to miss!
