Arsenal resume their football following the first international break of the season as they travel across town to take on Tottenham, so let’s take a look at the predicted lineup.
The Gunners are still unbeaten in the league but had a disappointing 1-1 draw against Brighton and Hove Albion last time around. It will not be easier against their arch-rivals who will be seeking to get the upper hand.
David Raya who has been one of the team’s standout players so far, will start in goal. As for the fullbacks, it is going to be the pairing of Ben White and Jurrien Timber. Both will have their work cut out as Spurs have a lot of pace in their attack.
In the middle of the defence, William Saliba and Gabriel will face their toughest challenge so far against the likes of Heung-min Son and Dominic Solanke. With the absence of Declan Rice, it makes their job that much harder, particularly when dealing with a counterattack.
The red card that Rice received last matchday will see him leave a huge hole in the visitors’ midfield. Thomas Partey will start as one of the three midfielders but who plays along with him is a question.
Despite his lack of pace, it is very likely that Arteta will turn towards the experience of Jorginho and have him play along with the Ghanaian. And with Martin Odegaard injured, we will get to see Kai Havertz drop back a little and look to play behind the centre forward.
On the wings, despite the arrival of Raheem Sterling we will have Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli lining up. That will leave Gabriel Jesus who is returning from injury to play as the striker. These three need to ensure that they are clinical as they may not get too many chances to score.
Arsenal and their run of fixtures will not get easier from now till a very long time. So, they have to ensure that they get as many points as possible. Winning a north London derby will give the Gunners a lot of confidence going forward. Arteta will be hoping that his players can get the job done despite missing a couple of important players.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup Against Tottenham (4-3-3):
David Raya, Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel, Jurrien Timber, Thomas Partey, Jorginho, Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus
