football.london writers give their thoughts on who Arsenal should start against Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League
06:00, 22 Nov 2025Updated 08:50, 22 Nov 2025
Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie are vying to start for Arsenal against Tottenham Hotspur
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Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie are vying to start for Arsenal against Tottenham Hotspur(Image: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Arsenal welcome Tottenham Hotspur to the Emirates Stadium, looking to get back to winning ways after their disappointment at Sunderland. The Premier League title might not be won in November, but the results now will have a massive impact.
The Gunners will be hoping for some help elsewhere as their title rivals are in action. But Mikel Arteta will be focusing solely on his side, his players and getting them in the mindset to win a massive clash.
There are plenty of areas the Gunners must be aware of. football.london's writers have given their thoughts on what they think the Spaniard should go for.
Tom Canton
What a game to welcome domestic football back to the Emirates Stadium; the derby could be the perfect springboard for this Arsenal side after their recent disappointment.
While there is rightfully concern surrounding the loss of Gabriel, there is definitely comfort in the options at Arteta's disposal. Piero Hincapie is a viable option, but I am leaning towards the greater experience and match volume of Cristhian Mosquera for this game.
Elsewhere, I don't think I can risk any of the players who are injury doubts, and therefore, Mikel Merino still starts up top. I think this could be a game where Eberechi Eze turns up in the big moment. Watch out for a strike from range to wow the occasion.
Canton's Arsenal XI vs Spurs: Raya; Timber, Mosquera, Saliba, Calafiori; Zubimendi, Rice, Eze; Saka, Merino, Trossard.
Ryan Taylor
All eyes are on the backline as Arsenal gear up for life without Gabriel Magalhaes in the North London Derby. Thankfully, Mikel Arteta has a number of suitable replacements to hand, not least Cristian Mosquera.
The Spain Under-21s captain was brilliant in replacing William Saliba earlier in the season, but it shouldn't be underestimated how much Arteta loves Piero Hincapie.
As a natural left-footer, he could well take centre-stage alongside Saliba after recently impressing in the Champions League and EFL Cup.
Mikel Merino could be primed for another big shift in attack as Viktor Gyokeres is unlikely to be fit. Leandro Trossard should keep his spot on the left after his Sunderland thunderbolt, while Eberechi Eze needs a big performance in midfield, particularly with Martin Odegaard closing in on his return.
While Arsenal are still missing some key players, this team is easily good enough to see off Spurs.
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Taylor’s Arsenal XI vs Spurs: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Hincapie, Calafiori; Zubimendi, Rice, Eze; Saka, Trossard, Merino.
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