Premier League Preview: Brentford vs. Arsenal

The Premier League table on January 1, 2025, tells an unusual story. Liverpool has surged ahead at the top, while last season's champions languish in 6th place, a massive 14 points adrift and with an extra game played. Surprisingly, Nottingham Forest has emerged as Liverpool's closest rival—a team many predicted would struggle to avoid relegation this season. Meanwhile, Manchester United sit in 14th after suffering five losses in December, with Tottenham also slumping to the lower half of the table.

Arsenal trails Liverpool by nine points, but a win against Brentford on New Year’s Day could see Mikel Arteta’s men climb to 2nd place.

Brentford vs. Arsenal

Brentford started the season with an outstanding home record, winning seven of their first eight matches at Gtech Community Stadium. However, their fortress was breached in a 2-0 loss to a high-flying Nottingham Forest side. Returning to winning ways at home is crucial for the Bees, as they’ve managed just two points from 27 available on the road. The squad faces significant challenges, with Kristoffer Ajer, Joshua Dasilva, Rico Henry, Aaron Hickey, and Igor Thiago all unavailable. Additionally, Mark Flekken, Mathias Jensen, Sepp van den Berg, and Ben Mee are doubtful for the fixture.

For Arsenal, the key question is whether Gabriel Jesus has finally solved their long-standing striker conundrum. The Brazilian netted five goals in just four days during victories over Crystal Palace in the league and League Cup, propelling the Gunners into the semifinals of the latter. However, the team faces a new obstacle: star winger Bukayo Saka is sidelined for several weeks with an injury. Arsenal defeated Brentford both home and away last season.

Betting Insights

• Match: Brentford vs. Arsenal
• Venue: Gtech Community Stadium
• Odds from Betsson: 7,40 (Brentford) – 4.95 (Draw) – 1.44 (Arsenal)

Brentford boasts an impressive home record, but many of their wins have come against weaker opposition. Arsenal, unbeaten in their last seven league matches, desperately needs a victory to keep their faint Premier League title hopes alive. Given the stakes and recent form, our pick is an Arsenal win (4 units)

TheTipster