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Arsenal under pressure ahead of Brentford test as PL title race reignites

With City's recent surge in form which brought a 3-0 win against Fulham last night, the pressure is firmly on Arteta and his players.

Mikel Arteta's men will be under pressure when they take on Brentford away from home tonight.

Mikel Arteta's men will be under pressure when they take on Brentford away from home tonight.

Shashwat Nishant New Delhi

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As Arsenal prepare to take on Brentford tonight, the stakes in the Premier League title race couldn’t be higher. Mikel Arteta’s side, currently sitting at the top of the table with a three-point lead over Manchester City, will know that any slip-up tonight could see their advantage reduced to just one point.  With City’s recent surge in form which brought a 3-0 win against Fulham last night, the pressure is firmly on Arteta and his players to deliver a result and maintain their position in the race for the title.
 
The Importance of Tonight's Game
 
With just a few months remaining in the season, every match is crucial, but tonight’s encounter against Brentford could be a defining moment for Arsenal. A win would put them six points clear of Manchester City, giving them some breathing room at the top and keeping them firmly in control of their destiny. However, a loss would hand City the momentum they need to close the gap, reducing Arsenal’s lead to a slim three points and raising questions about their ability to withstand the pressure in the home stretch of the season.
 
 
Manchester City’s recent performance has only added to the intensity of the title race. Pep Guardiola’s side produced a clinical 3-0 victory over Fulham, with goals from Erling Haaland, Antoine Semenyo, and Nico O’Reilly putting them back in the hunt. City’s dominant display sliced Arsenal’s lead to just three points, making tonight’s game for the Gunners all the more important. If Arsenal can’t secure a win, they could be left in a precarious position, with City lurking just behind and the pressure mounting. 
 
City pile the pressure on Arteta’s men
 
Mikel Arteta knows the pressure is mounting. After an impressive start to the season, Arsenal’s title challenge has been questioned in recent weeks, particularly with their inability to pull away from the chasing pack. The Gunners have suffered from inconsistent performances, and their lead at the top has been trimmed by City’s recent form. Arteta will be keen to maintain the momentum from their solid start and prevent City from closing in any further.
 
The pressure on Arteta has also been fueled by City’s recent resurgence. The Premier League champions are looking as dangerous as ever, with Haaland finding his form again and new signings making an immediate impact. Guardiola’s team is known for their ability to maintain high levels of performance in the final stages of the season, and Arsenal must keep their nerve if they are to fend off City’s challenge.
 
Arsenal's road to victory
 
To keep their six-point advantage, Arsenal must capitalize on their home advantage against Brentford. The Bees have proven to be a tough opponent this season, but Arteta will be hoping his team can produce a performance worthy of a title contender. Key players like Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, and Gabriel Jesus will need to step up and lead by example. Arsenal's defense, which has been solid for much of the season, will need to remain resolute against Brentford’s counter-attacking threat.
 
The Gunners' attacking prowess will also be critical. While the pressure is on Arsenal to win, Arteta’s tactical approach has often been characterized by fluid attacking play and dominating possession. Against Brentford, the key will be to break down a disciplined defensive unit and make sure that any chances that come their way are converted.
 
PL Title Race far from over
 
While Arsenal's lead may be under threat, it’s important to remember that the title race is far from over. With just a few months remaining, City and Arsenal will continue to push each other to the limit. A win tonight would not only boost Arsenal’s title hopes but also send a message to Manchester City that they are not willing to relinquish their top spot without a fight. On the other hand, a slip-up could open the door for City to pounce and reduce Arsenal’s lead to a bare minimum, setting up a dramatic conclusion to the season.
 
As Arsenal face Brentford tonight, the entire footballing world will be watching closely. With so much on the line, the Gunners have a chance to extend their lead, but they must deliver a performance that lives up to their title aspirations.

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First Published: Feb 12 2026 | 9:59 PM IST

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