Image Credits: Imago Images
Premier League leaders Arsenal will host Tottenham Hotspur for the first North London Derby of the season at the Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners’ 10-game winning run was brought to an end by Sunderland before the international break.
After keeping eight consecutive clean sheets, Arsenal were finally breached twice by the Black Cats in a thrilling 2-2 draw.
Manchester City capitalised on Arsenal’s slip-up, narrowing the gap at the top of the table to just four points.
This week could prove pivotal in deciding the course of Arsenal’s season.
The Gunners face an intense seven-day period, beginning with the North London Derby and ending with a trip to London rivals Chelsea.
Sandwiched between these league encounters is a crucial Champions League clash against Bayern Munich.
If Arsenal can secure maximum points from these three games, they will strengthen their position as favourites in both competitions.
Tottenham Hotspur come into the fixture having narrowly missed out on a win against Manchester United at home.
Richarlison celebrated what looked like a last-minute winner in the 91st minute, only for United to equalise in the 96th.
Spurs currently sit fifth in the Premier League and will be looking to protect their unbeaten away record this season.
Their last victory over Arsenal came more than three years ago, while their last win at the Emirates dates back over 15 years under Harry Redknapp.
The international break brought fresh injury concerns, with Arsenal centre-back Gabriel limping off while playing for Brazil.
Arteta has since confirmed that Gabriel will be sidelined for “weeks.”
Arteta said in his pre-match press conference. “Gabi unfortunately picked up an injury with the Brazil national team and he’s going to be out for weeks.
“We need to have another scan next Wednesday, and we’ll have the timeline probably much clearer than we have at the moment.
“It’s clearly a blow because he’s our leader in our backline and, to me, it’s never a positive thing.
“The good thing is that we have very good options and we need to stand up now and do the job.”
Gabriel has been ever-present this season for Arsenal, who have conceded just five Premier League goals.
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