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[Player ratings] Arsenal 2-0 Brentford: Merino on target as Gunners extend lead

By on December 4, 2025

Arsenal moved five points clear at the top of the Premier League table after a calm 2-0 win over Brentford at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night.

The team managed the game well and took their chances with control. Mikel Merino set the tone early and remained the key figure all night.

Quick match summary

Arsenal took the lead in the eleventh minute through Merino, who headed in from Ben White’s cross after a sharp move on the right.

The Gunners kept a steady rhythm and stayed organised, which forced Brentford to sit deep for long spells.

Bukayo Saka ended the game with a late goal after coming off the bench.

Arsenal player ratings

David Raya: 8

The Spanish keeper made a superb, vital save to tip Kevin Schade’s header onto the bar to keep the score at 1-0 in the first half. He stayed alert, claimed crosses with ease and kept a clean sheet.

Ben White: 8

Made a fine assist on his second league start of the season. Linked up well with Noni Madueke on the right and defended with calm precision.

Cristhian Mosquera: 6

Started strongly and worked well with Piero Hincapie. He controlled his area before an injury forced him off in the forty fourth minute.

Piero Hincapie: 7.5

A solid display from the Ecuadorian defender. He handled aerial balls, read danger well and helped secure the clean sheet with composed defending.

Ricardo Calafiori: 7

Another bright outing from the Italian. He supported attacks on the left, defended with purpose and went close with a shot that missed by a small margin.

Martin Zubimendi: 7

Kept play steady and helped maintain control in midfield. His passing kept the team moving at a smooth pace.

Declan Rice: 7

Made strong runs into the box and almost created a chance for Madueke before Rico Henry blocked it. Left the pitch late with what looked like cramp.

Martin Odegaard: 6

Looked involved on his first start since returning. Linked up well on the right and gained valuable minutes as he works back to full rhythm.

Noni Madueke: 7

Produced a clever flick that sent White free before the first goal. Showed neat footwork and forced a save from Kelleher after a sharp move.

Mikel Merino: 9

Rose highest to head in the opener from White’s cross. Almost scored again from distance and later delivered the pass for Saka’s late goal.

Gabriel Martinelli: 6

Had a few half chances but could not take them. Found good positions yet saw his efforts blocked or saved.

Substitutes

Jurrien Timber: 7

Came on for Mosquera and settled well at centre half. Broke up attacks with strength and stayed composed throughout.

Bukayo Saka: 8

Replaced Madueke and sealed the result with a calm finish in added time.

Eberechi Eze: 6

Came on for Martinelli and played on the left. Showed tidy touches but had little impact on the game.

Viktor Gyokeres: n/a

Came on late for Rice and did not have enough time to influence the match.