Arsenal vs Brentford: 3 Key Battles in Must-Win Match

Arsenal face a tough Brentford outfit at the Emirates on Saturday while winning several key battles will go a long way in securing three points.

Hopefully, we will get a better kickabout from the boys on Saturday.

After falling victim to the new manager bounce on Merseyside last week, Arsenal will be keen to avoid any further title setbacks this Saturday when they welcome in-form neighbors Brentford to the Emirates Stadium.

On paper, the Bees represent a similarly difficult proposition for Arsenal as they are currently unbeaten in nine Premier League matches and have recorded four clean sheets in their last five outings, while a pre-World Cup win at Man City proves they can compete with the very best in the division.

Here are three key battles to watch out for as Arsenal host Brentford in the Premier League.

However, an impressive display in the reverse fixture suggests Mikel Arteta’s side are prepared for even the toughest of challenges, and a “superb” reaction following the Everton defeat offers encouragement that they are now ready to resume their trophy bid before fervent home support.

It is a game that will likely be decided on fine margins, and here are three critical battles that should keep the viewers entertained.

#1: William Saliba vs. Ivan Toney

This promises to be a fascinating matchup.

Although he remains in the early stages of his Arsenal career, Saliba has already bested Ivan Toney once this season and is well-placed to do so again on Saturday.

The Frenchman was directly involved with Toney in September and produced a stunning individual performance to help secure the points. His tremendous composure amidst intense Brentford pressing allowed us to move up the pitch, and he completed several line-breaking passes to prompt forays into the final third, while a tall frame saw him take full advantage of the hosts’ zonal set-piece approach.

To replicate that standard will be challenging as Toney poses a considerable aerial threat, commits to the press, and likes to impose himself physically against opponents, with 13 league goals also indicative of his clinical touch in front of goal.

But Saliba will no doubt relish the challenge, and his imperious nature and remarkable consistency give us every chance of earning a positive outcome.

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