Arthur: Making my first-team debut was thanks to Brentford B development | OneFootball

Brentford defender Benjamin Arthur has reflected on a memorable start to the 2025/26 season - one that saw him make his competitive senior debut in the EFL Cup victory over Aston Villa, which highlighted the importance of the club’s B team in his development.

Arthur, who joined the Bees from Peterborough United in 2023, started in the Bees' dramatic penalty shootout win over Villa in September, marking a milestone moment for the 19-year-old, who was promoted to the first-team squad over the summer following an outstanding 2024/25 campaign with the B team.

Rewind just a few months, and Arthur was walking into pre-season at Jersey Road with a clear set of goals in mind. Having impressed throughout his time with the B team, the young defender was determined to take the next step, a mindset that would soon lead to his senior debut in red and white.

“It has been a great opportunity this season,” said Arthur. “From day one of pre-season, I had my targets set and I’m really happy to have made my debut. I’ve been working hard to get better every day and, in football, you have to keep a level head.”

Arthur admits that the circumstances surrounding his debut made the experience even more special.

“There was a game a few days before where I wasn’t in the squad, and then I got a call from the gaffer telling me to get my mind right,” he explained.

“The day before the game, I was told I was starting. When we went into the meeting and I saw my name on the board, I blanked out for a second, which was funny, but then I had to lock in.

"I’m really happy we got the result. It was a good test physically, and stepping up was an enjoyable experience.”

Having come through the Peterborough United academy before joining Brentford, Arthur’s progress has been steady and deliberate.

Last season, he was named Brentford B Player of the Year, following a campaign where he showcased leadership, composure, and defensive quality across domestic and international fixtures.

His season also included a standout moment in the Premier League Cup final, where he scored a powerful header against QPR at Gtech Community Stadium.

“Making my debut was the first checkpoint,” he continued. “Now it’s about pushing for contention for more opportunities.

"I’ve had a lot of positive feedback, but it’s always about how I can get better next time. I want to experience more and keep showing what I can do.”

Reflecting on his journey, Arthur credits the structure of Brentford’s B-team model, as well as his relationship with former B-team head coach Neil MacFarlane, now first-team coach, for helping him transition smoothly into the senior environment.

“From day one, the B-team plan was clear,” he said. “When I look back on the elite European men’s teams we faced, those experiences definitely helped me prepare for my debut.

"Having Neil in the first team made a big difference too, as he’s someone I’ve worked with for over two years and someone I can always talk to about anything.”

The call-up itself was a proud moment not only for Arthur, but also for those closest to him.

“I got the call from Keith in the afternoon after training,” he recalled. “I told my family and friends straight away as they’ve been such a massive part of my football journey.

"It was a precious moment for everyone. It’s something I’ll always remember, but now I’m focused on progressing even further.”

As Brentford B prepare for another clash with QPR U21s, Arthur knows how much these fixtures mean to the club and supporters alike.

“We played them three times last season, winning twice and losing in the cup final,” he said.

“Whether I’m involved or not, these games are massive. They show what the B team is capable of. Playing at the Gtech with fans there is a special feeling, and I’d encourage everyone to come down - it’ll be a great game.”

With maturity beyond his years and a grounded approach to his progress, Arthur’s focus remains clear: keep learning, keep improving, and make every opportunity count in red and white.

Tickets for the game on Tuesday 14 October (7pm kick-off BST) are available here.