The Gtech Community Stadium is set to host a (hopefully) great London derby as Brentford take on Arsenal in the opening Premier League fixture of 2025. Both sides enter the new year with contrasting recent form and ambitions, making this encounter highly anticipated for both fans and neutrals.
Arsenal Recent Form
Arsenal come into the match in third place, riding high after a scrappy 1-0 victory over Ipswich Town. Mikel Arteta’s men have been resilient, boasting an 11-match unbeaten run in all competitions and a perfect record in London derbies in the 2024 calendar year.
Their defensive stability and ability to grind out results have kept them firmly in the title race.
Injury and Team News
Arsenal continue to deal with the absence of Bukayo Saka, who is sidelined due to a hamstring injury. Gabriel Jesus might face rotation after an underwhelming performance against Ipswich.
Defensive injuries to Takehiro Tomiyasu and Ben White leave Arteta reliant on his squad depth.
Last Arsenal Lineup
Here is how Arsenal lined up in their last match:
Brentford Recent Form
Brentford finds themselves in 12th place, with their defensive vulnerabilities exposed despite their strong home record. A goalless draw against Brighton ended a three-game losing streak, but the Bees’ inability to secure clean sheets at home remains a concern.
Their 26 goals scored at the Gtech Community Stadium, however, highlight their attacking quality at home.
Injury and Team News
Thomas Frank’s squad has been heavily impacted by injuries, with key players like Ben Mee, Igor Thiago, and Rico Henry unavailable.
Goalkeeper Mark Flekken faces a race against time to be fit, while Sepp van den Berg and Mathias Jensen could make returns.
Last Brentford Lineup
Here is how Brentford lined up in their last match:
Brentford vs Arsenal - Who Is the Referee and VAR?
Here are the confirmed officials for the game:
Referee: Peter Bankes.
Assistants: Eddie Smart, Nick Greenhalgh.
Fourth official: Thomas Bramall.
VAR: Graham Scott.
Assistant VAR: Neil Davies.
Arsenal Player to Watch
Martin Odegaard: The captain remains the creative heartbeat of the team. His ability to unlock defences with incisive passing and deliver crucial goals makes him indispensable.
Brentford Player to Watch
Bryan Mbeumo: The forward’s pace and trickery on the wings could cause problems for Arsenal's backline, particularly with injuries limiting their options in defence.
Prediction
With Arsenal’s form and Brentford’s defensive woes, this match has all the makings of an entertaining affair. Expect Arsenal’s attacking quality to exploit gaps in Brentford’s backline.
Our Prediction: Brentford 1-3 Arsenal
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Over 2.5 Goals - Arsenal’s attacking potency combined with Brentford’s scoring form at home suggests a high-scoring match.
Tip 2
Arsenal to Win - The Gunners' strong record in London derbies and overall form makes them favourites.
Tip 3
Martin Odegaard Anytime Scorer - Arsenal’s captain is in excellent form and often steps up in big matches.
