Premier League leaders Arsenal face arch-rivals Tottenham on Sunday in the latest edition of the North London derby, with both teams under pressure for various reasons.
Sunday’s clash between Arsenal and Spurs (Image: Getty Images)
The North London derby is undoubtedly one of the most important matches of the season for a number of reasons. Mikel Arteta’s side currently sit at the top of the Premier League table but have had some wobbles in recent weeks.
A win against fierce rivals Tottenham Hotspur would once again underline their credentials as potential champions. However, defeat could seriously derail their progress towards winning the trophy.
Spurs, meanwhile, need to pick up points themselves to avoid sudden relegation to the Championship. They sit 16th in the table, just five points behind West Ham. Igor Tudor is the man tasked with leading the club out of the drop zone.
But which direction will North London Barbie go in on Sunday? Mirror Football writers have their say.
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read more: 13 players expected to miss Tottenham v Arsenal as Gunners head into crucial title race clashread more: Igor Tudor takes over Spurs’ big problems that Ange Postecoglou and Thomas Frank couldn’t solve
daniel ohm
Simply put, Arsenal are a much better team than Spurs, and the wide gulf between the two sides in the Premier League table shows that.
But that doesn’t mean much in Derby. Spurs will be desperate to further crush the Gunners’ title hopes.
And Mikel Arteta’s side are certainly vulnerable. The defensive solidity they showed earlier this season seems to have deserted them, and there’s no doubt the Spurs will be looking to take advantage of that.
Spurs have also struggled to prevent conceding and it looks likely that a goal will be scored during the game. I don’t think either of them will be able to keep their cool and cross the line.
It will be a thrilling draw with no advantage for either side.
Tottenham 2-2 Arsenal
Arsenal failed badly against Wolves (Image: Getty Images)
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john cross
The North London Derby is always passionate, highly exciting and essential for fans of both sides.
But it’s rarely so important to a club, for such different reasons. Tottenham are in serious danger of being embroiled in a relegation scrap, while Arsenal desperately need a win to get their title challenge back on track.
The problem for Mikel Arteta is that they look cooked. Arsenal looked mentally and physically drained in front of Wolves. They haven’t played well in a while and look vulnerable.
They also appear nervous and nervous. Arsenal are clearly struggling under the pressure and weight of expectations.
All of this gives Tottenham an opportunity to exploit Arsenal’s title fears. It’s true that they have injuries, but coach Igor Tudor spoke passionately about motivating his players and preparing them for the challenge.
That’s why I’m hoping for a game where the Spurs have spent more time preparing. Arsenal have faced Spurs three times since their last match. Tottenham, by contrast, will be up to the challenge and atmosphere will be crucial to whether fans feel they have a chance.
Tottenham 2-1 Arsenal
Andy Dunn
Arsenal will not give up on their bid to win their first Premier League title in more than 20 years, but they may suffer a setback. physically decline.
Don’t get me wrong, the toughest opponent for Mikel Arteta’s side is the schedule. Spurs may have a shocking injury list, but Igor Tudor will be keen on whoever he uses.
Arsenal have faced Spurs three times since they last met. That may be the most important factor in this North London derby.
Arteta has rotation options and a bigger and better squad. This advantage will dictate much of the contest.
But Tottenham’s freshness speaks for itself as well, and when combined with any pushback from their new manager, that should be enough to cause some problems for the Premier League leaders.
Arsenal take control early on, but expect Spurs to make a comeback as the game progresses. In fact, expect a rebroadcast of the recent Manchester City match.
Tottenham 2-2 Arsenal
Arteta’s Arsenal appear to be feeling the pressure of competing for the title (Image: Getty Images)
Which direction will the North London derby go? Share your predictions in the comments section below
neil mcleman
This could be an important and pivotal match for the Premier League leaders. A win will get the season back on track. If they lose, there is a risk of chaos.
Tottenham’s domestic season is now all about avoiding relegation and stopping their north London rivals from winning the title.
It’s expected to be quite an atmosphere with some of the biggest names in the Arsenal team having to feature. Expect big games from Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka and the two centre-backs, and a hard-fought victory for the Gunners.
Tottenham 1-2 Arsenal
ben husband
Arsenal looked absolutely terrible against Wolves in midweek. They looked completely limited and afraid to finish the match.
Whether it’s the pressure of competing for the title or just fatigue after a busy period, both factors will be at play again this weekend.
If Tottenham had continued to use Frank for one more game, I think Arsenal would have been heading in the right direction, but changes in the dugout could improve their performance significantly.
Spurs haven’t played much in the league this season and I’m sure they won’t be anywhere near the bottom three come May. Giving Arsenal another shot at the title will therefore rank fairly high on their priority list.
I hope they do. Expect pressure to keep cranking up.
Tottenham 1-1 Arsenal
Igor Tudor appointed as Tottenham manager for the first time (Image: Getty Images)
nathan ridley
If I had to pick a game to show that Arsenal have no intention of taking away this title, it would be the North London derby. The Gunners wiped the floor with Thomas Frank’s side in the reverse game, but it should be closer this time.
Arsenal’s defense has become more and more porous of late, but their attack is still far superior to that of the hosts. Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has been a happy hunting ground for Mikel Arteta of late, having won their last three games at the stadium.
Igor Tudor’s appointment will no doubt draw attention to Spurs’ players and he knows how to get the momentum out of his team quickly, but I can only imagine it will last long before Arsenal’s quality shines through. Aiming for a narrow victory for the Gunners.
Tottenham 1-2 Arsenal
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