Under Mikel Arteta's guidance, Arsenal thrashed Sheffield United 6-0 in their recent match, while Brentford managed a 2-2 draw against Chelsea. Arsenal's formidable attacking prowess has seen them net 31 goals in seven Premier League games in 2024, showcasing their dominance against league defenses.
Their recent victory over Sheffield United saw them take a commanding 4-0 lead within the first 25 minutes, with goals from Gabriel Martinelli, Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, and an own goal from Jayden Bogle. Declan Rice's goal before halftime sealed the deal, with Ben White adding another to mark Arsenal's joint-biggest away win in league history.
Arsenal's impressive form has set them apart, making them the first team in English league history to secure three successive away wins by a margin of at least five goals. With Liverpool and Manchester City not playing until Sunday, Arsenal has the opportunity to claim the top spot with an eighth consecutive Premier League win.
Their remarkable goal-scoring record, coupled with their solid defense, positions them as a formidable force in the league. Meanwhile, Brentford, despite their recent struggles, managed to hold Chelsea to a draw in their previous match.
Brentford's away form has been a cause for concern, with most of their recent away games ending in defeat. However, they managed to secure a draw against Arsenal at the Emirates last February, albeit with controversy surrounding a VAR decision.
As both teams gear up for their clash, Arsenal will be aiming to continue their winning streak and solidify their position at the top of the table, while Brentford will be looking to defy the odds and secure a positive result away from home.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
In Arsenal's dominant victory over Sheffield United, Thomas Partey returned to action for the first time since October, ending his five-month absence due to a thigh injury. However, neither Gabriel Martinelli nor Bukayo Saka completed the full 90 minutes, with Martinelli nursing a foot cut and Saka sidelined due to illness.While Saka is expected to recover in time for the upcoming weekend match, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta might opt to introduce Leandro Trossard or Gabriel Jesus in place of Martinelli, especially considering the upcoming Porto fixture.
Arsenal's defensive lineup could see the return of Takehiro Tomiyasu and Oleksandr Zinchenko, who are nearing their comebacks from respective knock and calf issues. However, Jurrien Timber remains sidelined with an ACL injury, and goalkeeper David Raya, owned by Brentford, is unavailable.
Brentford, on the other hand, didn't suffer any new injuries during their draw with Chelsea, but several players remain on the sidelines. Bryan Mbeumo, Kevin Schade, Aaron Hickey, Ethan Pinnock, Rico Henry, and Josh Dasilva are all still recovering. Additionally, Ben Mee will miss the rest of the season due to an ankle fracture sustained in a previous match.
Following his impressive performance last weekend, Yoane Wissa is likely to partner Ivan Toney upfront for Brentford, leaving Neal Maupay as an option from the bench.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Arsenal possible starting lineup:Ramsdale; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Kiwior; Odegaard, Jorginho, Rice; Saka, Havertz, Trossard
Brentford possible starting lineup:
Flekken; Zanka, Collins, Ajer; Roerslev, Janelt, Jensen, Norgaard, Reguilon; Wissa, Toney
EXPERT PREDICTION
Arsenal 2-0 Brentford
While Arsenal's defensive record at the Emirates Stadium isn't flawless, Brentford might find some hope in their ability to score multiple goals in three of their last four away matches. However, Arsenal's strength in attack is likely to overpower Brentford's injury-hit defense, leading them to the top of the league standings.
