Category: Arsenal

 

Arsenal’s problems have been laid bare over the last few weeks and if they are going to end the season as Premier League champions, they need to sign a few players this month.

 

Against Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup, Mikel Arteta’s men were left to bemoan some awful finishing from Kai Havertz who notably glanced an effort off his shoulder wide of the goal from a few yards out.

 

Havertz-Arsenal

It was Havertz again in the FA Cup a week ago, skying the ball over the bar when it looked easier to score, while they were nearly left to rue some poor finishing against Spurs in the north London derby. They did, at least, come through that one.

 

However, just when you think they’ve found their mojo again, going 2-0 up against Aston Villa, the result was taken away from them after some uncharacteristically bad defending.

 

Still, bolstering the forward ranks should remain the number one priority this month.

 

Arsenal’s plans to sign a new striker

The man who everyone wants right now is Alexander Isak. The Newcastle forward is one of the most in-form centre forwards on the planet, scoring 11 goals in his last ten matches in all competitions.

 

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

 

Alternatives are required, therefore, and in Benjamin Sesko – a man described as the “new Erling Haaland” by scout Jacek Kulig, they may have their man.

 

Sesko was the subject of interest from the Gunners over the summer but ultimately signed a new contract with German club RB Leipzig. A move in 2025 feels more likely but will it be done in January or the summer?

 

Sesko goal record

Well, according to the Sun, Arsenal are now weighing up a massive £70m bid for the striker this month as Arteta aims to bolster his side.

 

The Mirror also goes as far as to suggest he’s ‘already said yes’ to joining the Gunners, with a willingness now on the player’s side to move.

 

Sesko-Leipzig

Why Benjamin Sesko could be Arsenal’s very own Alexander Isak

In January 2022, Arsenal were reportedly looking at a move for Isak, who was playing for Real Sociedad at the time.

 

Boasting a release clause of £75m, the Gunners thought it sat above his market value and instead, they ignored a move and preferred other options.

 

Alexander-Isak-2

Just a few months later he moved to St James’ Park in a deal worth around £63m and since then, it’s safe to say Arteta and Co will be regretting their decision not to shell out.

 

While at the time Isak was hardly prolific, scoring 11 in 29 matches the season prior to moving to England, he has blossomed into one of the most feared forwards on the planet, finding the net 17 times in 24 games in 2024/25.

 

At the time of the move, the exciting Swede was just 22 years of age. He is now 25. Coincidentally, Sesko will be 22 by the time the summer window arrives. He’s also performing better at a similar age, suggesting that in a few years time, he could live up to the rave reviews he’s being given.

 

Described as a “monster” by data analyst Ben Mattinson, this is a player who if you invest in now, has a high chance of turning into something incredibly special.

 

Benjamin-Sesko-Leipzig

He’s at the point in his career – as Isak was when Arsenal rejected him – that he’s still learning his craft but he’s showing traits that would tick a lot of boxes for Arteta.

 

The Slovenian is tall, he’s strong and he’s one of the most incredible strikers of a ball in European football. Just look at the goal below.

 

So, how did Sesko compare to Isak at a similar age? We’ve compared the Newcastle star’s 2021/22 season with the RB Leipzig striker’s current campaig

 

 

 

So, it’s an interesting set of data with Sesko confidently the more prolific player when they were at the same point in their career.

 

Isak does appear to be the more creative and is likely to beat a man with greater regularity but the fact that the Slovenia international is already such a brute in the air and boasts immense physicality, makes him look as though he could be tailor-made for the Premier League.

 

Benjamin Sesko scores for Slovenia

He is no doubt still incredibly raw but Arsenal must learn from their lesson of not advancing with a move to sign Newcastle’s star man a few years ago. They were made to pay the price then and must not pass up on Sesko.

 

 

 

Arsenal have just let a two-goal lead slip in their 2-2 draw against Aston Villa in the Premier League.

 

Liverpool’s late win against Brentford piled the pressure on the Gunners ahead of kick-off, Mikel Arteta’s side however would not be fazed and started the game in impressive fashion.

 

Gabriel Martinelli was a bright spot for Arsenal and the Brazilian would eventually fire his side in front in the 35th minute.

 

Kai Havertz would then double Arsenal’s lead at the start of the second half before being pegged back by two hammer blows from Youri Tielemans and Ollie Watkins.

 

Arsenal would do their utmost to get themselves back in front but they ultimately fail to do so, dropping two crucial points in the process.

 

Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Aston …

 

Arsenal player ratings vs Aston Villa

David Raya – 6

Was solid when called upon, making a fine few saves from the likes of Ian Maatsen and Watkins.

 

Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7

Yet another solid performance from the youngster. He scrapped with Morgan Rogers all evening and kept the Villa man relatively quiet.

 

Gabriel Magalhaes – 6

It’s safe to say the Brazilian looked more human tonight after his heroic display in the North London Derby. Watkins’ runs in behind were an issue for the Arsenal defence all game.

 

 

Jurrien Timber – 6

The Dutchman did a solid job filling for the injured William Saliba, but the Frenchman’s absence was clear to see in Arsenal’s backline – especially when it came to defending aerial balls.

 

Thomas Partey – 4

Arsenal’s most disappointing performance of the evening. Partey looked uncomfortable at full-back yet again, giving possession away on a number of occasions – also failing to close Lucas Digne down for Villa’s opener.

 

Declan Rice – 6

The midfielder was a key part of Arsenal’s quick start to the game. He was a driving force to the Gunners attack, with his energy and gile being a key highlight.

 

Mikel Merino – 5

Beaten in the air for Tielemans’ goal, Merino failed to stamp his authority on the fixture up until the final moments when he nearly won it for Arsenal.

 

Martin Odegaard – 5

Largely absent for most of the game, Odegaard failed to make any sort of meaningful impact at Emirates. Disappointing from the Arsenal skipper.

 

Leandro Trossard – 8

Trossard proved his worth to Arsenal tonight. He gave Matty Cash problems all evening – providing the assists for Martinelli and Havertz’s goals. Big performance from the Belgian.

 

Kai Havertz – 6

After a rough few weeks for the German, he bagged himself a well-deserved goal with a lovely volley. He was unlucky to not have a second when his late goal got ruled out for handball.

 

Gabriel Martinelli – 7

With Bukayo Saka out injured, Martinelli stepped up to the plate to provide the goods for the Gunners. The Brazilian gave Maatsen nightmares down the right-hand flank, getting the better of the Villa man for Arsenal’s opener.

 

 

 

Arsenal were victorious in the North London Derby as the Gunners beat Tottenham 2-1 at the Emirates.

 

At first, it was the same old story for Arsenal, who conceded to Spurs after dominating the fixture in the early stages.

 

Fortunately, the Gunners found a way to respond to their rivals’ lead, as Dominic Solanke netted an own-goal after Gabriel Magalhaes’ effort from a corner.

 

Spurs fans were furious at Arsenal’s opener, which was believed to not have been a corner in the first place, adding to the tension of the North London Derby.

 

Leandro Trossard netted the match-winner moments before the interval, giving Mikel Arteta a much-needed boost after a difficult week.

 

Leandro Trossard of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammates during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Tottenh…

 

Arsenal player ratings vs Tottenham

David Raya – 7

When Arsenal needed Raya, the Spaniard was there, denying Spurs in the first half with a fine save at his near post.

 

Myles Lewis-Skelly – 9

Our man of the match, Lewis-Skelly made his North London Derby debut at just 18-years-old but looked like a seasoned professional when the stakes couldn’t have been higher.

 

The teenager was vibrant going forward and fearless in defence, he’s becoming impossible to ignore in that left-back role.

 

 

William Saliba – 8

The calm that Saliba brings to the Arsenal squad is unmatched, the Frenchman’s swagger was evident through some neat touches and composed defending.

 

Gabriel Magalhaes – 8

After being the hero at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in September, Gabriel played a big part at the Emirates.

 

Defensively solid and a real threat in the box, the Brazilian will be frustrated that his header was awarded as a Solanke own goal.

 

Jurrien Timber – 8

It was another high-scoring performance for an Arsenal defender as Timber made his presence known on the right side of defence.

 

The Dutchman was tireless, tricky and strong whenever he was involved in the action, he’s been like a new signing this season.

 

Thomas Partey – 5

One of the worst performers on the night was Partey, who was largely at fault for Son’s opener with some lackadaisical marking.

 

Arsenal fans were unimpressed by Partey’s performance, as the Ghanaian struggled to make an impact when higher up the pitch.

 

Declan Rice – 7.5

When Arsenal need a trusted figure to create something out of nothing, Rice is there to deliver an inch-perfect ball.

 

The midfielder was a constant attacking threat in play and from set-pieces, causing Spurs real problems whenever he stood over the ball.

 

Martin Odegaard – 7

After a difficult few weeks, Odegaard performed well for the most part against Tottenham.

 

The captain played some intricate balls forward and was at the heart of Arsenal’s attackers however, the midfielder sometimes took too long when on the counter attack.

 

Raheem Sterling – 6.5

Sterling’s performance against Man United earned mixed reviews, and it was more of the same for the Englishman in the derby.

 

The winger got into plenty of dangerous areas however, was unable to make his efforts count as his final contribution lacked.

 

Leandro Trossard – 7.5

Trossard’s goal came at the right time as the Belgian seemed to struggle early on in the derby.

 

All of the 30-year-old’s missed chances were forgotten as he burst towards goal and scored past Antonin Kinsky, who arguably should have done better.

 

Kai Havertz – 6

After Havertz was criticised for his display against Man United, there was hope that the German would get on the scoresheet against Spurs.

 

Regrettably, it was another evening of missed opportunities for the forward, who squandered several chances to add to his tally.

 

 

Gabriel Martinelli – 6.5

Martinelli added an injection of energy from the bench, causing Spurs problems.

 

Kieran Tierney – 6

Arteta made the daring decision to give Tierney a run out in the left-wing position.

 

 

 

Arsenal will be hoping to bounce back from Tuesday night’s disappointing defeat to Newcastle United when they host Manchester United at the Emirates on Sunday afternoon.

 

Newcastle ran out 2-0 winners in North London, beating the Gunners courtesy of goals from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon.

 

 

The result leaves Arsenal with a mountain to climb ahead of the second leg at St. James’ Park in February and has subsequently soured the mood around a deflated fanbase.

 

Arsenal supporters were fuming after the cup defeat, and thus responding against United is pivotal in ensuring that the state of affairs in N5 remains healthy and doesn’t descend into toxicity.

 

Arteta will be optimistic that his side can overcome Ruben Amorim’s outfit, who currently sit 13th in the Premier League, although the Red Devils will be buoyed by their draw with Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.

 

Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal, reacts during the Carabao Cup Semi Final First Leg match between Arsenal and Newcastle United at Emirates Stadium…

Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images

Arsenal v Man United will be played with a different FA Cup ball

In the aftermath of Tuesday’s encounter against the Magpies, Mikel Arteta issued a bizarre excuse for Arsenal’s loss.

 

The Spaniard was asked about how the EFL Cup ball differs to the Premier League ball, and responded by claiming that because it ‘flies differently’, his team had to adapt.

 

The tactician will have to contend with another different ball on Sunday against United, in a game that will use an entirely unique ball all together.

 

 

A limited-edition ball has been revealed by British football brand Mitre, which has been designed specifically for United as the current holders of the FA Cup.

 

It’ll be in use for the entire duration of the Manchester club’s run in the cup competition, for however long that lasts.

 

While the ball’s appearance will differ from the ball used in non-United game’s this weekend, the mechanics of it will be identical

 

This feature is par for the course in the FA Cup, with the winners presented with a unique ball to use the season after claiming the silverware.

 

Only 500 are said to be made each year, with the object often becoming a collector’s item.

 

Arteta has a strong record against Man United

Ultimately, the ball being used shouldn’t impact Arsenal’s ability to win the tie on Sunday afternoon.

 

Despite recent struggles, the Gunners should have far too much for Amorim’s team, who had been in dire form prior to their impressive performance against Liverpool.

 

Arsenal comfortably beat United 2-0 back in December, bombarding Andre Onana’s goal-mouth with a succession of dangerous set-pieces, and Arteta should look to exploit this weakness in the United ranks again on Sunday.

 

Mikel Arteta’s managerial record vs Man Utd

Matches 10

Wins 7

Draws 1

Losses 2

Goals For 18

Goals Against 10

 

Since Arteta took charge of Arsenal, the North Londoners have suffered just two defeats in ten games against their north-west rivals, winning seven.

 

The head coach evidently has United’s number, and given the chasm between the two teams at this present moment, he should have a game plan in place to ease past Amorim’s flailing side.

 

 

 

Arsenal really need a new striker in the ongoing winter transfer window.

 

The Gunners decided against bringing in a new centre-forward last summer after Benjamin Sesko rejected a move to the Emirates Stadium.

 

That decision has proved to be the wrong one, and Arsenal are now in a very difficult position, especially as Bukayo Saka is out injured for a couple of months.

 

Arsenal should dive into the market for a new striker, and we think there is a swap deal they could attempt to pull off in the coming days.

 

The Gunners were linked with a move to sign the striker when he was still at Borussia Monchengladbach. He was available on a free transfer 18 months ago, but Inter Milan secured his signature.

 

The North Londoners did not forget about the Frenchman. Edu Gaspar included Thuram in his five-man striker shortlist just a few months ago.

 

Back in September, there were even reports that Arsenal could use Gabriel Jesus in a swap deal to sign Thuram too, but no move has materialised.

 

 

Now, Inter Milan want to sign Oleksandr Zinchenko from Arsenal in this window, and we think this opens the door for Arsenal to make a move for Thuram, who has scored 13 goals and provided six assists so far this season.

 

The Gunners should use Inter’s interest in Zinchenko to secure a move for Thuram this month. A player-plus-cash deal could well be an option.

 

We think Thuram would be an incredible player at Arsenal and will solve the goalscoring issues they have at the top end of the pitch.

 

Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A TIM match between FC Internazionale and Cagliari at …

 

What Arsene Wenger has already said about Marcus Thuram

Arsene Wenger is one of the greatest footballing minds in the world.

 

The legendary Frenchman’s eye for talent is arguably better than anyone else’s in the game – he proved that time and again when he was at Arsenal.

 

In an interview with Spiegel Sport in 2020, Wenger was asked about Arsenal legend Thierry Henry.

 

He said: “There is a player in the Bundesliga who reminds me of him (Henry). Marcus Thuram from Mönchengladbach. A very talented player.”

 

If Arteta needs any convincing about signing Thuram, a quick phone call to Wenger should do the trick.

 

 

 

The Gunners are already six points behind the top of the Premier League table, despite playing a game more than the leaders Liverpool. They are 2-0 down from the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final as well.

 

To make things worse, Mikel Arteta has had to do without several key players because of injuries.

 

Arsenal fans are hoping that their side will dive into the market for new signings. But, in what is a shocking update, one of their players is said to be thinking of an exit.

 

Jorginho is considering shock Arsenal exit this month

Jorginho is not a regular starter at Arsenal, but he is still one of the club’s most important players.

 

The Italian joined the Gunners from Chelsea in January two years ago. Many fans were unsure about him, but he quickly won everyone over.

 

Jorginho, hailed as ‘incredible’ by Jamie Redknapp, has produced a number of great performances in the famous red and white, but more importantly, he has been a huge help to everyone behind the scenes.

 

Arsenal have not made a decision on Jorginho’s future yet. His contract expires at the end of this season but the Gunners have an option to extend that by another year.

 

But, in what is a big surprise, ESPN Brazil have claimed that Jorginho is actually considering leaving Arsenal before the winter window shuts.

 

 

It has been revealed that the former Chelsea man has been offered to Palmeiras in Brazil. The club’s officials have already met with Jorginho’s agents to speak about a move.

 

The report adds that Jorginho would only join two clubs in Brazil – Palmeiras or Flamengo. That’s because of their financial power and also as they have qualified for the Club World Cup this year.

 

Jorginho of Arsenal applauds the fans following the team’s victory during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester United FC at E…

 

Should Arsenal let Jorginho go?

Arsenal have already allowed Marquinhos to leave – he has joined Brazilian side Cruzeiro until the end of this year.

 

That has no impact on Arteta’s side, but letting Jorginho go when they are chasing Liverpool in the Premier League title race would be a foolish decision.

 

Yes, Arsenal are well-stocked in midfield – more so than other positions on the pitch – but they cannot afford to lose Jorginho’s experience and leadership at this stage of the season.

 

Besides, the Gunners need money to strengthen their attack in this window. They can’t waste those funds on replacing the Italian right now.

 

Arsenal should block any offer that comes in for Jorginho. They should keep him at the club at least until the end of the season.

 

 

 

Neto could make his debut for Arsenal after several months sitting on the bench

Neto could make his debut for Arsenal after several months sitting on the bench

 

There had been some speculation about whether or not goalkeeper Neto could make his debut for the club as he has waited a very long time for it. Signing from Bournemouth on loan, the Brazilian has been cup-tied in the Carabao Cup and not utilised in other games with David Raya impressing.

 

The back four remains the same from the Newcastle clash. Myles Lewis-Skelly stood out in particular, and he joins Gabriel, William Saliba and Jurrien Timber in the back line with the hope that Ben White could be getting closer to stepping up his recovery ahead of a return.

 

Into midfield and Declan Rice starts in the No.6 role, allowing Mikel Merino to enter the fray in midfield, rested from the midweek clash with Newcastle. Martin Odegaard needs to find some form after returning from illness but it has so far been hard to come by.

 

 

The forward line contains the returning face of Raheem Sterling. With Saka out, there is hope that the Chelsea loanee can find his form and produce the best of his career – like he promised upon his arrival at the club.

 

 

Gabriel Jesus starts over Kai Havertz with the Brazilian’s recent form much better than the German’s. Arsenal’s No.29 had a torrid time in midweek – though it must be said he too has only just come back from illness. Gabriel Martinelli starts on the left with Leandro Trossard hopefully able to make an impact from the bench if necessary.

 

Changed Arsenal XI: Neto; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Rice, Merino, Odegaard; Sterling, Jesus, Martinelli.

 

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Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Jesus with the Arsenal Therapy Dog Win during the Arsenal Men’s team group shoot at London Colney on September 18, 2023

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1. As the January transfer window draws near, Chelsea is aware that their team is in good shape but not yet prepared for sustained success in the second half of the season. Chelsea is in a fantastic position, having exceeded expectations under Enzo Maresca this season. They are now close enough to the fringes of the title race and almost certain to secure qualification for the Champions League next season, but this progress has come at a cost.

This January transfer window, Chelsea will be. Maresca can adjust his team throughout the transfer window, just like with every successful start. He can make important acquisitions and strengthen his areas of weakness. Through the challenging second part of the campaign, these actions will assist maintain momentum.

Chelsea is probably going to be very busy behind the scenes during this transfer window. Indeed, Maresca and his charges have had a remarkable season. However, deficiencies must be rectified for the club to continue its upward climb. Whether it’s finding a new, more costly goalkeeper, strengthening the defense, or adding more depth in attack, Chelsea will always be ready to make the necessary modifications. Maintaining a competitive edge in both home and European tournaments requires these changes.

Chelsea Transfer News: The team is trying to find a new goalie. The most crucial area of Chelsea’s current worry is their goalkeeping staff, especially with January’s transfer window active. Under new head coach Enzo Maresca, the Blues have turned things around this season. But on a strong team, the goalie position continues to be a problem. At Stamford Bridge, Robert Sánchez has failed to make an impression as a top-tier No. 1. Despite his obvious talent, Chelsea is searching for a long-term goalkeeper.

At that moment, I will wave good-bye. With a huge three-point lead, Arsenal got their 2025 campaign began to the only possible start. The Gunners appeared to be in for a tough evening after falling behind to Brfyan Mbeumo’s goal early on. However, they managed to stay in the game, as goals from Gabriel Martinelli, Mikel Merino, and Gabriel Jesus changed the outcome. With the Gunners in town, the Reds will have realized that their advantage is not secure as they currently trail Liverpool by six points, who still have a game left. In any case, I won’t take off because my toes and fingers are freezing in this press box. I appreciate you coming tonight, and I’ll see you

I must discuss Ethan Nwaneri before I leave. Based on his performance tonight, you would never have realized that the 17-year-old was making his Premier League debut. He got on the ball and gave Brentford a lot of trouble, especially in the second half. He also played a significant role in the two goals that followed the interval, providing a cross for Martinelli’s goal and a fantastic corner for Mikel Merino’s. That performance will calm some anxieties in the Arsenal camp as Bukayo Saka is now sidelined for a while. What a show the child gave.

Written by Harry Bamforth To be honest, Brentford wasn’t at their best today. They were a shadow of their former selves, especially at home, after thirty minutes, despite having a strong start. The Bees have now suffered back-to-back home losses and are the only team in the Premier League that has not yet maintained a clean sheet at home this year. Not very good, is it? Furthermore, for the first time since October 2007, Thomas Frank’s team has gone 11 straight home league games without a shutout. It’s imperative that they resolve that.

Gabriel Martinelli appears to have returned to his peak performance. Up until late December, the Brazilian had been having a lot of trouble, but that is no longer the case. Martinelli seems to have improved his game ever since Bukayo Saka was hurt at Crystal Palace. More than his previous 26 away goals in the Premier League, Martinelli has now scored in three of his last four away games. His current form coincides with Arsenal’s need for him.

It seems like a significant night for Mikel Merino’s growth at Arsenal. When he eventually got a run of games at the Gunners, he didn’t exactly blow up, but tonight he was outstanding. After his goal, the Arsenal away end couldn’t stop chanting his name for the majority of the second half. They also expressed their gratitude to him for his performance of marshalling the park following the full-time whistle. Though it’s not the finest, I believe they should find him a catchier song in the future.

https://twitter.com/i/status/1874538462235562484

The importance of that victory for Arsenal cannot be overstated. It is difficult to recover from a goal behind at Brentford, particularly given how antagonistic the crowd was in the beginning. However, the Gunners persevered and ultimately earned a well-earned three points. To stay on Liverpool’s coattails, the Gunners must just keep winning games as they continue to dominate the league. With that victory, they have now gone 12 games without a loss across all competitions, which is an incredible run of play. They simply must continue, and who knows where they might end up?

In west London, Arsenal does a great job! The Gunners begin the new year with three points, just like they did at the end of the previous one. Although their performance wasn’t particularly memorable, they shown genuine character by rallying from a deficit to win by a sizable margin. With one game remaining, Liverpool leads the Premier League by six points, and Arsenal is now in second place.

That substitution I said is there. Goal scorer Gabriel Jesus, who appears to have been in the military, is replaced by Oleksandr Zinchenko. As Jesus moves across the field, the home crowd jeers him, with many yelling a nasty name at him. Jesus won’t care that they don’t like him.

Brentford vs Arsenal LIVE: Kick-off time, TV channel, team news, live stream

 

Arsenal take on Brentford in the Premier League at the Gtech Community Stadium

Arsenal take on Brentford in the Premier League at the Gtech Community Stadium

Arsenal take on Brentford with a chance to move to second in the Premier League with a win. After Chelsea’s defeat to the Gunners’ last opponent Ipswich Town, the gap to their west London rivals can open to four while closing the chasm to Liverpool to six points.

 

Mikel Arteta enters the new year without Bukayo Saka who has undergone surgery on his hamstring and will be out for the foreseeable future. Made worse was a knee problem suffered by Raheem Sterling and the Spaniard is lacking in options.

 

Thomas Frank could be without first choice keeper Mark Flekken who was one of three players to come off injured for the Bees against Brighton. Christian Norgaard is thought to be fine to face the Gunners but Flekken remains a doubt while Ben Mee will miss the games.

 

Arsenal will want to start the year off in a positive way and with a strong victory. Kai Havertz scored two late goals in the last two meetings with Brentford but will hope for a much less dramatic matchup this time.

 

You can follow all the action from the Gtech Community Stadium with football.london’s chief Arsenal writer Tom Canton in our live blog below. Updates to follow…

 

Brentford team confirmed

Starting XI: Flekken, Janelt, Collins, van den Berg, Roerslev, Norgaard, Yarmoliuk, Damsgaard, Lewis-Potter, Mbeumo, Wissa

 

Subs: Valdimarsson, Schade, Jensen, Meghoma, Konak, Maghoma, Ji-soo, Yogane, Arthur

 

 

Arsenal team confirmed

Starting XI: Raya, Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Partey, Merino, Odegaard; Nwaneri, Jesus, Martinelli

 

Subs: Neto, Kiwior, Tierney, Zinchenko, Lewis-Skelly, Jorginho, Rice, Kabia, Trossard

 

 

Arsenal may be forced to make Sterling call

Arsenal have no plans to terminate Raheem Sterling’s loan spell early, despite the winger’s limited game time since his deadline day switch to the Emirates Stadium from Chelsea. The Gunners are, however, assessing their options due to Premier League rules restricting their recruitment capabilities.

 

Sterling, who previously worked with Mikel Arteta at Manchester City, has been a bit-part player and hasn’t managed to secure regular appearances. Despite rumours of an early termination, Arsenal remain committed to the agreement.

 

However, they are unable to secure any more domestic loans. Premier League regulations allow only two players on loan from domestic competitors, and Sterling was joined by Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto at the Emirates Stadium.

 

Read the full story here.

 

 

Raheem Sterling has struggled for game time at Arsenal

 

Arteta, who will be without Bukayo Saka for the foreseeable future, did provide something of a positive update on one of the winger’s potential replacements who has also been out. Raheem Sterling was also absent from the team that faced Ipswich after he was confirmed to have suffered a knee problem but the Gunners’ boss was upbeat on his chances of a quick return.

 

“He was gutted because he had a good game against Palace here, he could have scored two goals and made an assist and in the end, he got injured in a training session,” Arteta said. “That was his opportunity because naturally, he would have played in that position. But knowing Raz, I think he will be back quite soon.”

 

Read the full story here.

 

 

Raheem Sterling has received a boost as Arsenal look to cope without Bukayo Saka

 

Arsenal vs Brentford Predicted XI

Arsenal will want to kick off 2025 in style with a big win at Brentford. This will be no easy task, however, as the Gunners face a side with an excellent home record.

 

This is the first match of a January which contains four different tournaments that Arsenal must navigate with as close to perfect execution as possible. All the while not having Bukayo Saka in the side who could be missing until at least March after undergoing hamstring surgery.

 

Arsenal can move four points clear of Chelsea with victory and close the gap to Liverpool to six. Here’s how football.london expecting Mikel Arteta to line his side up.

 

Read the full predicted side here.

 

 

Thomas Partey, Riccardo Calafiori and Kai Havertz are all in contention to start for Arsenal against Brentford