Three Things We Learned as Nwaneri starts 2025 impressively to help Arsenal post vital victory 

Here's Ian Mills with his series Three Things We Learned after Arsenal beat Brentford to move back to second spot 

Arsenal fought back from conceding an early goal to post another impressive London derby win. Here are three things that stood out for me, writes Ian Mills 

1 - Nwaneri continues to shine –

The Gtech Community Stadium is certainly a ground close to Ethan’s heart as after making his Arsenal debut there as a 15 year old in 2022, he made his first ever Premier League start at the same venue.

His mature performance defied his 17 years, and he has clearly laid a claim to be a valid option as Bukayo Saka’s replacement on the right wing as our Starboy continues his recovery.  

I still expect Arsenal to enter the transfer market to find another attacking option as our resources are somewhat limited in that respect however with plenty of games to play across four competitions, Ethan will have plenty more chances to impress.

2 - Character on display –

With Liverpool having stretched their lead over us to nine points (as well as significantly boosting their goal difference in the process with their thumping of West Ham) this was a must win game. With rumours of a virus in our squad, Kai Havertz missed out altogether thereby further limiting our forward choices.

Having started brightly and dominated possession, it was hugely frustrating to fall behind to Brentford’s first attack. As a former goalkeeper myself, I imagine David Raya will be annoyed with himself at getting beaten as his near post by Mbeumo.

It almost got worse before it got better as Raya then let a tame effort from Lewis-Potter squirm through his hands before showing his incredible powers of recovery and superb reflexes to claw the ball off the line.

That was the turning point in the game as Jesus reacted well when Partey’s shot was parried to equalise. Two early second half goals, the first from Merino from a corner and the second a superb effort from Martinelli sealed a tremendous comeback win.

We play again before Liverpool face a beleaguered Manchester United and we have a chance to narrow the gap further to three points (albeit with two games in hands for the league leaders).

3 - Thomas Partey's excellent form continues - 

When the official club site gave its choice for man of the match for many there was a glaring omission – Thomas Partey was absent from those listed.

He gave another commanding display in central midfield as he continues to enjoy his best run of form and fitness since his debut season.

His versatility is a further asset as he is likely to be drafted in at right back on Saturday as Jurrien Timber is suspended following his booking in this game.

Travelling Gooners celebrating Gabi Martinelli’s goal to make it 3-1 to Arsenal here at Brentford pic.twitter.com/dgEMP2WBPM

— Layth (@laythy29) January 1, 2025