Arsenal will aim for their 11th Premier League win of the season as they face Brentford at the Brentford Community Stadium in London on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2025. The Gunners are currently nine points behind league leaders Liverpool and sit 12 points ahead of Brentford in the standings. The Africa Football’s editor Bill Eshun looks into the upcoming match.
- Arsenal are unbeaten in all competitions since November 7.
- Brentford have failed to win any of their last four matches in all competitions.
Arsenal secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Ipswich in their most recent outing, rounding off the year on a strong note with an 11-match unbeaten streak across all competitions. They have won three of their last five Premier League fixtures.
However, Arsenal will face a challenge in the absence of Bukayo Saka, who has been instrumental this season. The winger is second in the league for assists, with 10, and his creativity will be missed.
Despite this setback, Mikel Arteta’s side remain confident as they prepare to face a Brentford team struggling for form. The Bees have gone four matches without a win in all competitions and are currently 12th in the Premier League table.
Partey Key to Midfield Stability
Mikel Arteta has placed significant trust in Thomas Partey this season. The Ghanaian midfielder has made 17 league appearances, scoring twice and providing two assists.
Even with his Arsenal contract entering its final months, the 31-year-old has been in peak form, controlling the tempo from midfield with composure and precision. The match against Brentford offers another opportunity for Partey to demonstrate his quality and leadership.
Team News
Arsenal will be without Bukayo Saka, Raheem Sterling, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Ben White due to injuries. Brentford, meanwhile, are missing seven players because of various injury issues.
The Odds
Brentford’s chances of winning are currently priced at 6.83 on 1xBet, while Arsenal’s odds stand at 1.472. A draw is valued at 4.995.
Prediction
Although Arsenal will be missing one of their key attacking players, they are expected to secure all three points against a struggling Brentford side, keeping their title hopes alive.
Predicted Scoreline: Brentford 1-2 Arsenal
