Mikel Arteta Asks Arsenal to Stay Calm After Brentford Draw, Focus on Chasing Consistency

The Draw in West London might feel like two points dropped, but for Mikel Arteta, panic isn't the answer. Arsenal failed to secure a win when visiting Brentford's home ground in the 26th week of the Premier League 2025/2026 at Gtech Community Stadium, early Friday morning WIB. 

The 1-1 score reignited the top-of-the-table battle, especially with Manchester City looming and pressing from second place.

Noni Madueke put Arsenal ahead first with a header from Piero Hincapie's cross.

However, that lead lasted only 10 minutes before Keane Lewis-Potter equalized for Brentford. The 1-1 score held until the final whistle.

This result meant Arsenal failed to maintain a six-point gap over Manchester City. The difference between both teams is now just four points. 

City previously secured a 3-0 win against Fulham, adding extra pressure in the title race. Yet, Arteta chose calmness and focus.

“I mean, we will prepare to win every game, and the only thing we can do is focus on that. We need to raise our level, collectively and individually, to be better than the opponent every week. That will continue like this until May,” he stated, quoted from Arsenal's official website on Friday.

For Arteta, the Gtech Community outcome wasn't about City's pressure. He dismissed suggestions that the rival's victory affected his team's performance.

“I think we've also played well after them several times this season and we won matches. Today wasn't about that,” said the Spanish manager.

Instead, he assessed the Draw stemmed purely from internal team factors, particularly in containing Brentford's aggression.

Statistics showed Arsenal struggled to control the tempo. Sofascore recorded Brentford having 12 shots with three big chances, while The Gunners produced just seven shots with one major opportunity.

“It was a very difficult match. We knew it would be tough to dominate them throughout. They're very good at dragging you into the game they want,” Arteta remarked.

Now, Arsenal's consistency test continues. The league-leading Gunners (57 points) face Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux Stadium on Thursday, February 19 at 03:00 WIB. 

Before that, Declan Rice and teammates first feature in the FA Cup fourth round against Wigan Athletic at Emirates Stadium, Sunday, February 15 at 23:30 WIB.