Arsenal will brace themselves for yet another stern test as they host Tottenham Hotspur in what is going to be the first north-London derby of this new edition of the Premier League. The Gunners are coming on the back of an embarrassing 3-1 defeat to Liverpool. But, they will be expected to win against their arch-rivals this weekend, especially in front of their home crowd.
Here is how Unai Emery’s troops may lineup in this high octane encounter on Sunday.
Defence
Bernd Leno is currently the undisputed number one goalkeeper for Arsenal. He will retain his place in between the sticks, ahead of Emiliano Martinez. He could expect yet another busy afternoon against a sharp Spurs attack.
Ainsley Maitland-Niles is the only reliable option available in the right-back slot, with Hector Bellerin injured. The youngster, however, needs to be much more aware of his opponent’s runs in behind the backline.
David Luiz has become a first-team regular for Arsenal, and his experience could be vital in dealing with Spurs this weekend. Sokratis Papastathopoulos will partner him at the heart of Emery’s four-man backline. The Gunners’ fate in this game could well depend on the performances of these two individuals.
And finally, Sead Kolasinac is expected to return to the starting lineup at the expense of Nacho Monreal, who is closing in on his switch to Real Sociedad.
Midfield
Emery will likely retain his three-man midfield setup. But, he could make one fundamental change by replacing the young Joe Willock with Lucas Torreira. The Uruguayan’s dynamism and work-rate will be useful, especially in dealing with the likes of the attacking Spurs midfield.
Torreira will be partnered by the ever-present figure of Granit Xhaka and Matteo Guendouzi. These three individuals will be expecting a busy afternoon against a strong Tottenham midfield. And it’s essential that they provide security to the backline.
Attack
Emery will want to use a lot of firepower in attack, meaning we could expect Alexandre Lacazette. The Frenchman will lead the line for Arsenal this weekend, allowing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to feature in a wide attacking role on the left.
Elsewhere, the presence of Torreira will make the inclusion of Dani Ceballos in the starting lineup, almost redundant. Therefore, we expect Nicolas Pepe to retain his place in the team, operating in his preferred right-wing slot. His pace and trickery on the flanks could be useful, especially on the counter.
