Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has disclosed that preparations for the Gunners’ crucial 3-1 Premier League win against Brentford were disrupted by a virus that swept through his squad.

Several players were affected by the illness, which struck on the eve of Wednesday’s match at the Gtech Community Stadium. German forward Kai Havertz was sent home with clear symptoms, while England midfielder Declan Rice could only make a second-half appearance from the bench.

Captain Martin Odegaard also struggled with the virus but managed to start the game. However, he made a costly error that led to Bryan Mbeumo’s opening goal for Brentford and was later substituted in the second half.

Despite these setbacks, Arsenal showed resilience and bounced back impressively to secure victory. Goals from Gabriel Jesus, Mikel Merino, and Gabriel Martinelli ensured the Gunners moved within six points of league leaders Liverpool, who still have a game in hand.

Speaking after the match, Arteta acknowledged the impact of the illness on his team.

“It affected players on the pitch and off the pitch,” Arteta said. “It is nothing serious, but it wasn’t the ideal situation. With Kai, it was obvious. He wasn’t feeling well at all, so we sent him back to London.

“These things happen. At this time of year, infections and viruses are common. I try to delay the line-up announcement as late as possible because you can wake up in the morning and have a surprise like this.”

Arteta remains optimistic that the virus will have run its course by the time Arsenal faces Brighton on Saturday.

The win at Brentford keeps Arsenal firmly in the title race as they look to close the gap on Liverpool while managing the challenges posed by illness and a packed fixture schedule.