Paul Merson Urges Mikel Arteta to Rest Key Arsenal Players Against Brentford

Paul Merson Arsenal Brentford advice: Arteta urged to rest Saka, Rice, and Ødegaard before Real Madrid second leg.

Paul Merson Arsenal Brentford advice has sparked debate ahead of Saturday’s Premier League fixture at the Emirates Stadium. Following Arsenal’s emphatic 3–0 win over Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-final first leg, Merson believes manager Mikel Arteta should rest three key players to prioritize the second leg in Spain.

Speaking to Sportskeeda, Merson named Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Martin Ødegaard as players who deserve a break. He argued that Arsenal’s slim chances of winning the Premier League—given Liverpool’s 11-point lead—make the Champions League their best shot at silverware this season.

“Brentford are not an easy team to face in the Premier League,” Merson said. “I don’t think Arteta believes his team are through to the semi-finals despite the 3–0 win. So I’m expecting him to rest a few players against Brentford.”

Champions League Takes Priority

Merson’s comments come at a critical moment in Arsenal’s season. With the second leg against Real Madrid looming on April 16, Arteta must carefully manage his squad’s fitness. Saka limped off during the first leg, and both Rice and Ødegaard played pivotal roles—making rest a strategic necessity.

The Paul Merson Arsenal Brentford advice has resonated with fans who understand the importance of squad rotation. With kickoff set for 5:30 PM on Saturday, all eyes will be on Arteta’s lineup. Will he gamble on resting his stars or push for Premier League points?

Either way, Arsenal’s ability to balance domestic and European ambitions will shape the final stretch of their season—and possibly their shot at Champions League glory.

 

All links on ArsenalTalks Shop are affiliate links. We may earn commissions that support our content—at no extra cost to you. Read our full Affiliate Disclosure for more information.