Brentford’s Premier League story began with a bang - a famous 2-0 win over Arsenal in August 2021. But since that opening night, the Bees have struggled against the Gunners, failing to win any of their last eight meetings (two draws, six defeats).
Arsenal, stung by that early upset, have responded with authority. They’ve won their last three trips to Brentford by a combined score of 7-1, turning the Gtech Community Stadium into a ground of redemption rather than regret.
London derbies haven’t been kind to Brentford either. Just one win in their last 11 at home, and none in seven since edging Crystal Palace in August 2024, tells its own story. Arsenal, by contrast, thrive in these capital clashes — losing only once in their last 23, with Mikel Arteta boasting the best win rate of any manager in London derby history.
Midweek fixtures add another layer. Brentford have mixed fortunes on Thursdays, while Arsenal are unbeaten in 12 midweek league games but curiously winless in their last three Thursday outings. The Gunners will want to break that streak here.
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Form at home is another concern for Brentford. Their defeat to Nottingham Forest ended a seven-game unbeaten run at the Gtech, and history warns that back-to-back home losses often involve Arsenal. Yet Igor Thiago offers hope — nine goals in his last 10 home league games, including four braces, a record bettered only by Erling Haaland this season.
For Arsenal, Bukayo Saka remains the heartbeat in London derbies, with 35 goal involvements across 63 such fixtures — trailing only Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp in club history.
This clash isn’t just about points. It’s about pride, history, and momentum in the capital. Brentford seek to rewrite their Arsenal narrative, while the Gunners aim to reinforce their dominance in London.