As the highly anticipated North London Derby between Arsenal vs Tottenham approaches on September 15, 2024, fans are abuzz with debate and excitement. Despite the array of injuries plaguing Arsenal, my opinion is unwavering: Arsenal remains the favorite, even on enemy ground.
Arsenal’s Injury Woes
The Gunners will be without several key players for this encounter. Mikel Merino is sidelined with a shoulder injury, Martin Ødegaard is out due to an ankle injury, and Declan Rice is suspended following a red card. In addition, new signing Riccardo Calafiori is nursing a calf injury. These absences could present significant challenges for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Despite these setbacks, Arsenal’s squad depth and quality should not be underestimated. Players like Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, and Thomas Partey have stepped up in crucial moments and remained fit, offering hope to Arsenal fans.
Tottenham’s Current Form and Player Availability
Tottenham, on the other hand, come into this clash with injuries of their own. Richarlison and Yves Bissouma will be absent, which could alter Ange Postecoglou’s game plan. Nevertheless, Tottenham boasts solid performers in the form of Heung-Min Son, James Maddison, and Cristian Romero, who have been pivotal in their campaign so far.
Son has been especially crucial, contributing two goals in three Premier League appearances, while Maddison has delivered two assists. Romero, with his defensive solidity and ability to chip in with goals, adds another layer of strength. However, despite their recent performances, Tottenham’s injury concerns and fluctuating form in recent games—their last five matches include a disappointing 2-1 loss to Newcastle and a draw against Leicester—raise questions about their ability to clinch a victory.
Historical Context and Recent Encounters
Historically, the North London Derby has delivered a mixed bag of results. In their previous encounter on April 28, 2024, Arsenal edged Tottenham with a thrilling 3-2 win, according to previous match data. Over the long term, Arsenal has not fared poorly at Spurs’ home ground, with notable wins such as a 2-0 victory on January 15, 2023, and a 3-0 triumph on October 1, 2022.
The predictions for this upcoming clash also lean in favor of the Gunners. In my opinion, Arsenal has a 45% probability of winning, compared to Tottenham’s 10% chance. The likelihood of a draw is also 45%.
Quality and Depth: Arsenal’s Edge
Despite their injury list, Arsenal’s squad depth this season sets them apart. Players like Thomas Partey, who has maintained an impressive 7.166 rating, and Kai Havertz, who has started the season strong with two goals and an assist, ensure that Arsenal still packs a punch. Bukayo Saka’s contributions cannot be overlooked, with one goal and three assists to his name already. Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Jesus are other impactful players who could turn the game in Arsenal’s favor.
In the midfield, Arsenal can still rely on Jorginho and the youthful energy of Martin Lewis-Skelly, while their defense anchored by William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães remains robust.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, it is my belief that Arsenal, despite their injury setbacks, possess the quality and depth to overcome Tottenham at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Their historical performance in the North London Derby and the quality within their remaining squad provide ample reason to consider them favorites. As we approach kickoff, all eyes will be on Arteta’s strategies and how well they can adapt to their injury constraints to secure those crucial three points.
The stage is set for yet another exhilarating chapter in the North London Derby, and come September 15, football fans across the world will be watching closely to see if Arsenal can live up to their potential and seal a decisive victory over their arch-rivals.
