Mikel Arteta has opted to field the same lineup for today’s highly anticipated north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.
The manager has decided to stick with the same starting lineup that impressed in Tuesday’s commanding 5-0 victory over Chelsea, giving them another chance to shine in today’s derby clash.
This means Takehiro Tomiyasu and Thomas Partey retain their spots after stepping in for the match against Chelsea.
Mikel Arteta will be banking on his chosen lineup to secure a third consecutive home win, achieve back-to-back victories at Tottenham for the first time since 1988, potentially secure consecutive clean sheets in league matches at our rivals’ ground for the first time ever, and possibly set a new Premier League record in the process.
As for our adversaries, Ange Postecoglu has made three adjustments to the squad following their 4-0 defeat against Newcastle United 15 days ago.
One change was necessitated due to Destiny Odogie’s torn quadricep during training, resulting in Ben Davies taking his place at left-back. Meanwhile, Pedro Porro, who was substituted during the game at St James’ Park, has been deemed fit to start.
Dejan Kulusevski and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg have also been included in the lineup, replacing Brennan Johnson and Yves Bissouma, who move to the bench.
Tottenham’s lineup features Vicario, Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Davies, Bentancur, Hojbjerg, Kulusevski, Maddison, Werner, and Son, with substitutes including Austin, Dragusin, Royal, Bissouma, Sarr, Gil, Johnson, Richarlison, and Lo Celso.
Meanwhile, Arsenal’s starting XI comprises Raya, White, Saliba, Gabriel, Tomiyasu, Rice, Partey, Odegaard, Trossard, Saka, and Havertz, with Ramsdale, Zinchenko, Kiwior, Jorginho, Smith Rowe, Vieira, Martinelli, Nketiah, and Jesus on the bench.
Saka reminisces about past North London derby moments.
From witnessing the North London derby as a youngster to netting a goal in the same fixture, Sunday’s match holds deep significance for Bukayo Saka.
The Arsenal winger scored his first goal against Tottenham Hotspur during our 3-1 victory at Emirates Stadium in September 2021, extending our lead to 3-0 in the 34th minute after strikes from Emile Smith Rowe and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
Reflecting on that moment, Saka expressed, “After my first goal, it’s hard to put into words how I felt. It was such a monumental game. I understand the significance of an Arsenal victory over Tottenham. To play and score in that match is truly special to me. I’ll always cherish that day, especially securing the win.”
He continued, “I wouldn’t change a thing. Arsenal holds immense importance in my life.”
When asked about his favorite derby goal not scored by himself, Saka recalled a couple of memorable strikes. “One that stands out is Alexandre Lacazette’s remarkable goal when I was on the bench.
Also, Tomas Rosicky’s strike, another number seven! It was an incredible goal, showcasing remarkable technique. Such goals are rare, especially in a North London derby. I’m certain it’s one of his favorite goals as well.”
Regarding this season’s prior encounter at Emirates Stadium, which ended in a 2-2 draw, Saka acknowledged the threat posed by Tottenham. “They possess quality and can capitalize on our mistakes with their potent attack,” he said. “However, we are aware of our own strengths and are confident in our ability to secure victory.”
Saka also expressed gratitude to the Arsenal faithful for their support and the chants dedicated to individual players. “It’s heartening to have my own song, so I’m thankful to the fans for creating it,” he said. “All the boys appreciate it. Currently, I’m enjoying the Kai Havertz chant and William Saliba’s as well!”
Facts and stats
Tottenham’s recent record against us reflects a downturn, with just one win in their last six league encounters, compared to four losses in this stretch, matching their total from the previous 16 matches.
This season, Spurs have conceded 49 Premier League goals, possibly facing the prospect of conceding 50 or more in consecutive campaigns for the first time since 2015.
Previously, up until the end of the 2015/16 season, Arsenal vs. Tottenham was the most evenly contested fixture in Premier League history, with 20 of the 48 meetings ending in draws, constituting 42 percent. However, since then, only four of the subsequent 15 matches have resulted in draws, accounting for 27 percent.
Our recent away form in London derbies showcases resilience, with just one loss in our last 11 league matches away from home against local rivals since the beginning of last season, boasting eight wins and two draws, all while maintaining clean sheets in all eight victories.
Although we have kept clean sheets in our last six Premier League away games, a feat accomplished only twice before in history by Chelsea and Manchester United in 2008/09, we have yet to secure consecutive clean sheets in league visits to Spurs.
Guglielmo Vicario could join a select group as only the second goalkeeper to concede 50 or more goals in his debut Premier League season with Spurs, following Neil Sullivan’s tally of 51 in 2000/01.
In Premier League history, Tottenham has relinquished more points from winning positions against us than against any other opponent, amounting to 45 points.
Son Heung-Min has been a consistent threat, contributing to 24 goals in his last 26 league appearances, scoring six and assisting two of Tottenham’s last 12 goals against us.
Brennan Johnson has showcased his impact, being involved in nine goals across his last 15 Premier League matches, with four goals and five assists, five of which came off the bench.
Bukayo Saka eyes a milestone, aiming to become the first Arsenal player since Alexandre Lacazette in 2019/20 to score both home and away against Spurs in a single campaign, and the first Englishman since Ian Wright in 1993/94 to achieve the feat.
Martin Odegaard’s contribution away from home has been noteworthy, as he has been involved in six goals in his last six Premier League away games, scoring three and assisting three.
Previous visits to Spurs
Last season marked a significant milestone for us with our first league triumph at Tottenham since 2014. A Hugo Lloris own goal and a brilliant strike from Martin Odegaard secured a 2-0 victory in January 2023.
If Arteta’s side secures another win, he could become the first Arsenal manager to achieve consecutive away league victories at Tottenham since George Graham in the late 1980s.
This win was pivotal in dispelling the specters of our previous visits to Spurs’ new stadium, notably the painful 3-0 defeat in May 2022. The home side also notched 2-0 and 2-1 wins in other encounters at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Now, over 20 years since our league triumph at White Hart Lane, we’re hopeful for another memorable afternoon to propel us towards our first league title since the days of the Invincibles.
How to watch Tottenham v Arsenal live on TV
The Premier League title race heats up with a North London derby set to take place at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday, April 28.
The match kicks off at 2 pm UK time. For those without tickets, supporters worldwide can catch the action on Breakdown Live via Arsenal.com and the official app, offering all the Gooner-related analysis, laughs, and build-up you crave!
Alternatively, UK viewers can tune in to Sky Sports to watch the game live on TV. Non-UK supporters can find out which broadcaster is covering the match in their region from the list below:
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