Irrespective of Arsenal’s outcome this season, Mikel Arteta will recognize the intrinsic value of this victory, which was secured by the late header of substitute Kai Havertz.
As time wound, it appeared that a lackluster performance against a devoted Brentford, during which Aaron Ramsdale endured an uncertain return between the posts, would result in a disappointing outcome. However, after a shaky start to his career since joining north London from Chelsea in the summer, Havertz scored in the 89th minute by deflecting home Bukayo Saka’s cross at the far post.
Arsenal Tops the Table
The victory places Arteta’s squad atop the table for the first time this season. Following a problematic evening that mainly concerned the nerves of his goalkeeper, the manager dragged Havertz over to the away fans to celebrate at the final chime. Given David Raya’s ineligibility to face his parent club, Ramsdale’s first Premier League appearance since September 1st concluded in a clean sheet even though he nearly conceded the lead to Brentford in the opening half.
Arteta’s Milestone and Squad Unity
However, Arteta’s 200-game tenure as Arsenal’s manager culminated in an illustrative moment when the squad ran to embrace their goalkeeper at the final whistle, showcasing the spirit he has cultivated. “[Ramsdale] displayed tremendous bravery,” the Arsenal manager remarked.
“Gentlemen, it is a delight to observe this response. Nothing could be more ideal than supporting and affectionately encouraging one another. “On the occasion of my 200th game with the team, I am filled with immense pride.”
Motivated Victory
In light of Manchester City’s draw with Liverpool, Arsenal sought further motivation to secure a victory. However, Brentford have not been defeated on this soil since losing to Arteta’s squad in the EFL Cup almost two months ago, and the opposition is notoriously dangerous when playing at home. Although Gabriel Jesus and Martin Ödegaard returned to the starting lineup for Arsenal for the first time in five weeks, Ramsdale captured the attention in the initial moments of the match, not in a good way.
Early Struggles and Defensive Resilience
Just before a nearly disastrous attempt to take a goal-kick with Gabriel Magalhães, he slashed a clearance that sailed out of play. Yoane Wissa closed him down quickly, and Ramsdale appeared to fret as the Brentford forward approached. The ball fell into Bryan Mbeumo’s path; however, Declan Rice skillfully blocked his attempt at the line. Wissa, much to the relief of Ramsdale, missed the rebound with a thrust. “You’re a complete shithole, David Raya,” mockingly exclaimed the Brentford supporters.
Strategic Substitutions and Goalline Drama
Eddie Nketiah came perilously close to making an immediate impact off the bench when he attempted to meet Martinelli’s cross, but Ben Mee’s outstanding headed clearance averted the situation. Then, under duress from Saka, Flekken nearly conceded the breakthrough to Arsenal when he dipped on the ball, but the goalkeeper maintained his composure.
Zinchenko’s outstanding goalline parry was the only thing standing in the way of Neal Maupay’s late-game goal after the substitute received Mbeumo’s cross. “We engaged Arsenal in a fierce battle throughout the entire match,” Thomas Frank remarked.
Havertz’s Decisive Moment
However, Havertz had time to spice up a lifeless second half when Saka selected him to send Flekken limping and Arsenal ahead.
