[4-3-3]: Six Academy stars starts, Rice rested and Merino dropped- Arsenal predicted lineup against Brentford as Mikel Arteta rested so many players ahead of Real Madrid’s clash
Arsenal head across the capital to Brentford in the first Premier League fixture of 2025.
Mikel Arteta’s side saw off Ipswich Town last time out to extend their unbeaten run to eight league games, as the Gunners look to close the gap on leaders Liverpool.
A win for Arsenal will move them up to second and continue a dominant record against fellow London opposition.
Arsenal did not lose any of their 10 London derbies in 2024 and will hope that form continues into the new year.
Brentford are searching for a first win in four games but boast a brilliant home record this season. No side in the Premier League has taken more points on home soil (22) than Thomas Frank’s men.
Arsenal team news
Bukayo Saka has begun his rehabilitation from hamstring surgery with Arteta confirming after the win over Ipswich Town that the winger had undergone an operation. He is set to miss a minimum of two months.
There was better news on Raheem Sterling whose knee issue is not as bad as first feared. However, it’s unlikely the on-loan winger will feature at Brentford.
Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu remain out for the Gunners as long-term absentees. The defensive duo are recovering from knee issues.
Arsenal predicted lineup
Arsenal predicted XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Merino, Rice; Trossard, Odegaard, Martinelli; Havertz.
