Mikel Arteta faces a crucial decision in selecting Arsenal’s starting lineup and formation for the North London derby against Tottenham. This period is particularly challenging for Arsenal, with three important matches coming up, including away trips to Atalanta in the Champions League and a Premier League showdown against Manchester City. However, for now, the manager’s primary focus will be on the short journey across North London for the derby.
In the pre-match press conference, much of the attention was on Arteta’s newly signed three-year contract, but the conversation quickly shifted to the team’s injury situation. Reporters were keen to hear updates on key players like Martin Ødegaard, Gabriel Jesus, and Riccardo Calafiori, whose fitness is critical for the upcoming games.
Martin Ødegaard’s injury has been a significant concern. The Arsenal captain suffered a painful ankle injury while playing for Norway in their match against Austria. While the exact details of the injury are still unclear, there are fears that Ødegaard could be out for 3-4 weeks, which means he would miss both the derby against Spurs and the match against Manchester City. Arteta acknowledged that more tests were needed before a final diagnosis could be made, but he remained hopeful that Ødegaard’s recovery would progress quickly. He emphasized the midfielder’s positive attitude, but stressed the need for patience before determining a return date.
Gabriel Jesus, who has been sidelined for the early part of the season due to injury, could be available for selection against Spurs. Jesus has been training with the team, and Arteta expressed optimism about his potential inclusion, pending a final training session. If everything goes well, the Brazilian forward could provide a much-needed boost to Arsenal’s attack.
Riccardo Calafiori’s situation is less certain. The Italian suffered a calf injury during a Nations League match against France. Arteta advised waiting for a proper diagnosis to see if Calafiori could be fit in time for the derby. Meanwhile, Arsenal will be without Declan Rice, who is serving a suspension following his red card against Brighton, leaving a void in midfield.
With several key players either unavailable or doubtful, Arteta faces a serious selection dilemma ahead of the North London derby. Replacing both Ødegaard and Rice, two of Arsenal’s most influential players, will require careful tactical adjustments. There has been speculation about creative solutions, such as playing Jurrien Timber in midfield or even starting young Ethan Nwaneri, but Arteta is likely to opt for more balanced, pragmatic changes.
In defense, the back four is expected to remain unchanged, with Timber likely to start at left-back instead of taking up a midfield role. In midfield, Arteta is expected to deploy a double-pivot of Thomas Partey and Jorginho to compensate for the absence of Rice. This pairing will be key in maintaining control in the middle of the park against Tottenham’s aggressive pressing game.
Kai Havertz is expected to step into the No. 10 role, filling the creative void left by Ødegaard. Although Havertz brings a different style to the position, his presence could still provide Arsenal with a strong link between midfield and attack. On the wings, Bukayo Saka will likely maintain his usual spot on the right, while Raheem Sterling, who could make his debut, is expected to start on the left. Sterling’s speed and experience could provide a new dimension to Arsenal’s attacking play, possibly pushing Gabriel Martinelli to the bench.
Leandro Trossard is anticipated to start in a false-nine role, offering flexibility and movement in Arsenal’s front line. Trossard’s versatility will be crucial as Arsenal look to exploit spaces in Tottenham’s defense.
Predicted Arsenal Starting XI:
– GK: David Raya
– DEF: Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, Jurrien Timber
– MID: Thomas Partey, Jorginho
– ATT MID: Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, Raheem Sterling
– FWD: Leandro Trossard
With key players out, Arteta will need to rely on tactical discipline and the depth of his squad to come away with a positive result against Tottenham. This match will not only test Arsenal’s resilience but could also provide an early indicator of how well they can handle the pressures of a long, challenging season ahead.