Arsenal vs Tottenham: Previewing the North London Derby

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Arsenal will be looking to cement their position at the top of the Premier League table when they take on North London rivals Tottenham at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

Arsenal’s 2025/26 campaign has been humming along in style. Mikel Arteta’s side have looked composed, ruthless in attack, and defensively solid — their early results sending a message that they’re serious contenders. With key creative players and goals coming at regular intervals, the Gunners are pressing hard near the top of the table and haven’t been afraid to dominate big matches.

Tottenham, on the other hand, have had a more up-and-down ride. Injuries and inconsistency have plagued them through the season so far. While they’ve shown flashes of quality — especially on the counter — their squad depth is being tested, and their form hasn’t quite matched their North London ambition. Heading into this derby, they know they need to bring their best just to compete.

Team News & Injury Watch

Arsenal

• Captain Martin Ødegaard is targeting a return around this derby, which could be a major boost for Arteta’s creative engine.
• Noni Madueke is also pushing for a comeback — he’s been out with a knee issue.
• On the defensive side, Gabriel Magalhães is a concern after suffering a groin/adductor problem while on international duty.
• The good news? Riccardo Calafiori is expected to be passed fit to start, which would help shore up the backline.

Tottenham

• Spurs’ problems aren’t few. James Maddison is out for the long term after an ACL injury sustained in pre-season.
• Randal Kolo Muani recently suffered a fractured jaw, ruling him out for what feels like an eternity.
• Meanwhile, Lucas Bergvall, who has shown promise this season, is recovering after a concussion.

Betting Odds & What the Bookies Are Saying

Here’s a look at some of the latest online football betting odds for this North London Derby, plus a few value bets to mull over:

• Arsenal to Win: ~ 1.40 / +140
• Draw: ~ 5.00 / +400
• Tottenham to Win: ~ 9.20 / +820

Other Markets to Consider:

• Over/Under Goals: Given that Arsenal should dominate, a bet on Over 2.5 goals might be tempting — especially if Spurs push forward.
• Both Teams to Score (BTTS – Yes): Spurs will probably have moments on the break or from set-pieces; there’s a decent case for both sides finding the net.
• First Goalscorer: Look at someone from Arsenal’s attacking lineup — with Spurs struggling defensively, a Gunners forward or midfielder could grab an early goal.

Predicted Line-ups

Here’s how I think both sides might line up, based on form, fitness, and Arteta / Frank’s likely selections:

Arsenal: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Calafiori, Lewis-Skelly; Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Eze, Martinelli; Gyökeres.

Tottenham: Vicario; Porro, Van de Ven, Romero, Spence, Palhinha, Bentancur, Simons, Kudud, Odobert, Richarlison

Prediction: Score & Outcome

This feels like Arsenal’s derby to win. With home advantage, momentum in the league, and more fit key players, the Gunners should control the game. Spurs will be dangerous on the break, but I don’t see them doing enough to pull off a shock here.

Predicted Score: Arsenal 3–1 Tottenham

Final Thoughts

This derby isn’t just about bragging rights — it could have real implications in the title race. Arsenal will want to extend their lead and prove they can beat their rivals consistently, while Tottenham need a result to stop their slide and build some confidence. For Gooners, this could be a big moment; for Spurs, a chance to re-ignite momentum if they’re brave (and clinical) enough.

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