Mikel Merino stole the spotlight yet again for Arsenal, grabbing both a goal and an assist as the Premier League leaders battled past a determined Brentford side 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium, restoring their five-point cushion over Manchester City. The Spanish midfielder — once again deployed as Mikel Arteta’s temporary No.9 — powered in an early header and later created the second goal for substitute Bukayo Saka, sealing a significant home victory.
Arteta opted to rotate his lineup after Sunday’s draw against Chelsea, introducing Noni Madueke, Martin Odegaard and Ben White in place of Saka, Eberechi Eze and Jurrien Timber. Madueke and White combined brilliantly for the breakthrough, with the winger delivering a precise cross that Merino expertly nodded in at the near post.
Gabriel Martinelli had a golden chance to extend the lead before the interval but sent his effort over the bar, while at the opposite end, David Raya produced a superb reflex save to touch Kevin Schade’s close-range header onto the woodwork.
Arsenal endured some anxious spells after the restart as Brentford pushed for an equaliser, but the hosts eventually secured the result when Saka — brought on for Madueke — coolly dispatched Merino’s pass to push the Gunners back into a commanding position at the summit.
Here are GOAL’s ratings from the Emirates Stadium…
Goalkeeper & Defence
David Raya (8/10):
Pulled off an outstanding stop to deflect Schade’s point-blank header onto the crossbar, and remained assured in his handling throughout the match.
Ben White (8/10):
Restored to the starting lineup and immediately reminded fans of his influence. Dominant down the right flank, linked up sharply with Madueke, and delivered a perfect assist for the opener.
Cristhian Mosquera (6/10):
Became Arsenal’s latest injury casualty, forced off before the break after landing awkwardly.
Piero Hincapie (7/10):
Handled Brentford’s pace and direct approach effectively. A composed and reliable display.
Riccardo Calafiori (7/10):
Energetic and versatile as ever, popping up across multiple areas of the pitch. Strong defensively and even came close to scoring near the end.
Midfield
Martin Zubimendi (7/10):
Calm and composed, kept Arsenal’s rhythm steady and maintained control in possession.
Declan Rice (7/10):
Made several surging runs into the penalty area and nearly set up Madueke for a tap-in before Henry’s crucial block. Limped off late, with Arsenal hoping it’s nothing more than fatigue.
Martin Odegaard (6/10):
Positive signs on his first start since returning. Involved regularly, combined well on the right, and appears to be regaining sharpness with each minute played.
Attack
Noni Madueke (7/10):
Bright and dangerous in the first half, repeatedly troubling Henry. Played a clever flick to release White in the build-up to the opener. Set-piece delivery is still inconsistent. Faded after the break.
Mikel Merino (8/10):
Excellent centre-forward movement to break the deadlock. His run and header were textbook. Covered immense ground and capped the performance with an assist for Saka.
Gabriel Martinelli (6/10):
Blazed a good chance over before half-time. Worked tirelessly but struggled to impose himself before being replaced by Eze.
Subs & Manager
Jurrien Timber (7/10):
Introduced early for the injured Mosquera and performed securely at centre-back.
Bukayo Saka (7/10):
Made the result safe deep into stoppage time after latching onto Merino’s clever pass.
Eberechi Eze (6/10):
Had plenty of touches, but Brentford restricted his influence well.
Viktor Gyokeres (N/A):
Came on late with little time to affect the game.
Mikel Arteta (7/10):
Used the chance to rotate his squad, though Mosquera’s injury disrupted plans. Managed the match well overall and secured a crucial victory.