Arsenal vs. Tottenham: Odegaard Returns as Arteta Faces Crucial Gyokeres Call—Latest Team News & Predicted XI
Mikel Arteta has urged patience during challenging moments for his Arsenal squad, following their failure to secure maximum points in consecutive Premier League matches this Wednesday evening.
The concern extends beyond simply losing two crucial points, as certain supporter groups are declaring a crisis. The Gunners permitted one of the league's historically weakest sides to mount a comeback from a 2-0 deficit, delivering a lackluster display against Wolves that lacked championship-caliber intensity.
Fortunately, they have an ideal chance to bounce back on derby weekend, though Sunday's journey to Seven Sisters Road has become a fixture that fans are approaching with trepidation as "choking" whispers grow louder.
This represents a massive encounter, remarkably, for both clubs' table positions, with Arsenal understanding they can push their bitter adversaries deeper into trouble by rediscovering their winning formula.
Match Snapshot
Match Snapshot
Will Viktor Gyokeres Start Over Gabriel Jesus?
Will Viktor Gyokeres Start Over Gabriel Jesus?
Arsenal have been handed a twin fitness boost ahead of the derby, with Kai Havertz, who was originally anticipated to miss this encounter, and skipper Martin Ødegaard both available for selection for the visiting team.
Though Arteta stopped short of confirming either player's inclusion in his matchday roster, both appear to be progressing positively.
Nevertheless, Arsenal remain without Mikel Merino following a foot problem, alongside academy prospect Max Dowman. Leandro Trossard appears fit despite his late substitution on Wednesday evening, while Arteta faces a decision whether to persist with Viktor Gyökeres following an underwhelming display against Wolves or introduce Gabriel Jesus in the striker role.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs. Wolves
Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs. Wolves
GK: David Raya—Arsenal's shot-stopper faced criticism for his involvement in Wolves' fightback on Wednesday evening, and he'll be seeking a commanding display in reply at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
RB: Jurriën Timber—Timber has struggled recently, with his minimal offensive output no longer compensating for subpar defensive work. Ben White remains ready if improvements aren't forthcoming.
CB: William Saliba—Saliba observed the chaos develop around him at Molineux, and his composed presence will be crucial on derby day.
CB: Gabriel—The Brazilian defender no longer faces the challenge of containing Harry Kane in this matchup, but it remains uncertain how Tottenham will configure their attack under Igor Tudor. The Croatian manager might deploy a front two and seek to engage both of Arsenal's exceptional center-backs.
LB: Piero Hincapié—The ensuing meltdown overshadowed Hincapié's maiden Arsenal strike, which was expertly executed, and he surely merits retaining his position.
DM: Martín Zubimendi—Fans are eager to see more of Christian Nørgaard, but the Danish midfielder will likely only feature from the substitutes' bench, if at all, on Sunday. Arteta will probably stick with Zubimendi.
DM: Declan Rice—The moment has arrived for Rice to seize control of this anxious Arsenal team and guide them through this difficult spell.
RW: Bukayo Saka—Deploying Saka through the middle remains possible, but Arteta will likely welcome back at least one crucial attacking player, which should enable Saka's return to his wide position.
AM: Martin Ødegaard—Should the captain be match-ready, anticipate his immediate return to the starting eleven. Eberechi Eze enjoyed his moment in the corresponding fixture, but Arteta will probably rely on established players to restore his team's rhythm.
LW: Leandro Trossard—Gabriel Martinelli has lost his starting berth through poor form, so Trossard, who was unfortunately withdrawn in added time on Wednesday, is expected to receive the starting nod.
ST: Viktor Gyökeres—Arsenal urgently require Kai Havertz, but the German may not be prepared for an immediate start. Consequently, Spurs' weakened defensive line will face Gyökeres at N17.