Kai Havertz was sidelined due to illness and missed the match in west London, but goals from Gabriel Jesus, Mikel Merino, and Gabriel Martinelli enabled Arteta's team to rally from an early deficit caused by Bryan Mbeumo's 11th league goal of the season. This win keeps them six points behind the league leaders, despite having played an extra game, ahead of Saturday's clash with Brighton.
Arteta expressed optimism about Havertz's availability for the upcoming match on the south coast, stating that the player was among several affected by the illness. When questioned about the potential strain of a demanding January schedule with nine matches, Arteta affirmed his confidence in his players' ability to cope.
"When I witness the determination of each individual to play through any obstacle and the adaptability we can demonstrate within our system, the answer is no," he asserted. "However, unforeseen circumstances could present challenges. Illnesses are common during this time of year, with throat infections and viruses circulating. Hopefully, we can avoid further issues and welcome back players like we did Ricky [Calafiori] today. We need everyone."
Arteta handed Ethan Nwaneri his first league start, over two years after the player made history as the youngest ever Premier League participant at this very ground. The 17-year-old contributed to Arsenal's second and third goals, with Arteta emphasizing that he earned his place in the team.
"His selection wasn't due to the illness," Arteta clarified. "I chose him because I believed he was the optimal choice for that position at the start of the match. And because there was a narrative surrounding his Premier League debut. Sometimes, you have a feeling, and you trust it."
Arsenal's second goal, originating from Nwaneri's corner, marked their ninth goal from corners this season. Brentford's manager, Thomas Frank, admitted that his team was caught off guard by the set-piece routine orchestrated by Nicolas Jover, the set-piece coach who commenced his English coaching career at Brentford. "I need to analyze it further, but they excel in that area, and it's something we can learn from," he conceded.
