Mikel Arteta is faced with a critical challenge as he prepares Arsenal’s lineup and tactics for the upcoming North London derby against Tottenham.
The timing of this derby is particularly tough for Arsenal, as they are also preparing for important matches against Atalanta in the Champions League and Manchester City in the Premier League.
Despite these upcoming fixtures, Arteta’s immediate priority is the short trip to Tottenham for the much-anticipated derby.
During the pre-match press conference, much of the initial discussion focused on Arteta’s recent signing of a new three-year contract.
However, attention quickly shifted to the fitness of several key players, with reporters eager for updates on the availability of Martin Ødegaard, Gabriel Jesus, and Riccardo Calafiori — all of whom are dealing with injuries that could impact Arsenal’s performance in the coming weeks.
One of the biggest concerns is Martin Ødegaard, who suffered an ankle injury while representing Norway in a match against Austria.
Though the specifics of the injury remain unclear, early indications suggest that Ødegaard could be sidelined for 3-4 weeks.
This would see him miss both the North London derby and the crucial Premier League match against Manchester City.
Arteta acknowledged that more medical tests were needed to assess the extent of the injury, but he remained hopeful about Ødegaard’s recovery, citing the midfielder’s positive mindset.
However, he emphasized the importance of patience and not rushing his return.
Gabriel Jesus, who has been out for much of the season so far due to injury, might be available for selection against Tottenham.
Jesus has returned to training with the squad, and Arteta expressed optimism that the Brazilian forward could be included in the lineup, pending a final training session.
Should Jesus be deemed fit, his presence would offer a significant boost to Arsenal’s attack.
The situation surrounding Riccardo Calafiori is less clear.
The Italian sustained a calf injury during a Nations League match against France, and Arteta advised waiting for a full medical diagnosis before determining his availability for the derby.
Arsenal will also be without Declan Rice, who is suspended after receiving a red card in the previous match against Brighton.
Rice’s absence leaves a substantial gap in Arsenal’s midfield that Arteta will need to fill.
With so many key players either unavailable or doubtful, Arteta faces a serious challenge in selecting the right team to face Tottenham.
Both Ødegaard and Rice have been central to Arsenal’s success, and replacing them will require tactical adjustments.
There has been speculation about possible creative solutions, such as deploying Jurrien Timber in a midfield role or giving young prospect Ethan Nwaneri a chance, but Arteta is likely to lean toward more experienced, balanced options.
Defensively, Arsenal’s back four is expected to remain unchanged.
Timber is likely to retain his role at left-back rather than moving into midfield.
In the center of the pitch, Arteta is expected to opt for a double pivot of Thomas Partey and Jorginho to compensate for Rice’s absence.
This midfield pairing will be crucial in maintaining control against Tottenham’s high-intensity pressing style.
In attack, Kai Havertz is anticipated to fill the No. 10 role vacated by Ødegaard.
Although Havertz has a different playing style, he could still provide a valuable link between midfield and attack.
Bukayo Saka is expected to maintain his usual position on the right wing, while Raheem Sterling, possibly making his debut for the club, could start on the left.
Sterling’s speed and experience could offer a new attacking dimension, potentially relegating Gabriel Martinelli to the bench.
Leandro Trossard is likely to be deployed in a false-nine role, giving Arsenal flexibility and movement in the attacking third.
Trossard’s versatility could be key as Arsenal look to break down 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 sidelined, Arteta will need to rely on his tactical acumen and the depth of Arsenal’s squad to secure a positive result.
This derby will not only test the team’s resilience but could also offer an early indication of how well Arsenal can manage the pressures of a long and challenging season.
