The Premier League prepares for a compelling fixture as Nottingham Forest hosts Arsenal at the City Ground. This clash is set for Saturday, January 17, 2026, with a 5:30 PM GMT kick-off. While Arsenal secured a convincing 3-0 victory in the reverse fixture this season, Forest’s formidable home form makes this an unpredictable and highly anticipated match for fans across the globe.

A Rivalry Renewed: Head-to-Head History

Historically, Arsenal holds the upper hand in this rivalry. Across all competitions, the Gunners have won 56 encounters compared to Forest’s 29, with 23 matches ending in a draw. However, recent history tells a more nuanced story. In their last eleven meetings, Arsenal has won seven times, but Nottingham Forest has proven to be a tough opponent, especially on their home turf.

Consequently, the City Ground has become something of a fortress for Forest against top opposition. They famously secured their Premier League survival here in May 2023 with a 1-0 victory over the Gunners, a result that also ended Arsenal’s title hopes that season. This demonstrates that past statistics don’t always predict the future in this intense fixture.

The City Ground Factor: Recent Encounters

Playing in Nottingham presents a unique challenge for visiting teams. Arsenal experienced this firsthand in their recent visits, which have produced dramatic and closely fought contests. Therefore, looking at these specific results gives us a clearer picture.

Here are the outcomes of their last few meetings at the City Ground:

• January 30, 2024: Nottingham Forest 1-2 Arsenal
• May 20, 2023: Nottingham Forest 1-0 Arsenal
• January 9, 2022: Nottingham Forest 1-0 Arsenal (FA Cup)

In the January 2024 match, Arsenal managed to grind out a vital 2-1 win thanks to goals from Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka. Forest, however, made it a tense finish with a late goal from Taiwo Awoniyi. This result shows Arsenal can win here, but it is never easy.

Stars on Show: Players Who Could Decide the Match

Both squads feature players capable of changing the game in an instant. Their performances will undoubtedly be crucial to the final score.

Arsenal’s Attack

For Arsenal, Bukayo Saka has been a consistent threat. He scored in the 2-1 victory at the City Ground in 2024 and also in the 2-1 home win in August 2023. His ability to create chances and score from wide areas will be key. Similarly, Gabriel Jesus has also been influential, providing both a goal and an assist in that same 2024 away win.

Forest’s Threat

Nottingham Forest’s Taiwo Awoniyi has a remarkable record against the Gunners. The powerful striker has scored in each of his last three appearances against Arsenal, including the crucial winner in May 2023 and late goals in both matches in the 2023/24 season. His physical presence and clinical finishing will certainly test the Arsenal defence once again.

What to Expect

In conclusion, this match promises to be a fascinating tactical battle. Arsenal arrives with historical dominance and the memory of a comfortable 3-0 win earlier this season. In contrast, Nottingham Forest boasts a strong home record and the knowledge that they can upset the Gunners at the City Ground. With key players on both sides in goal-scoring form against their opponents, fans can expect an exciting and hard-fought Premier League contest.