The absence of Declan Rice, following his controversial red card against Brighton, and doubts over captain Martin Odegaard’s fitness leave Arsenal facing a potential midfield crisis. Rice’s suspension places an early strain on the team, and Odegaard, who sustained an ankle injury during international duty, could also miss out, creating a dilemma for Arteta as he plans for the game against Spurs.
Key Injuries/Suspensions Impacting Arsenal’s Lineup
1. Declan Rice
Arsenal’s midfield lynchpin, Declan Rice, is set to miss the North London derby due to a suspension after receiving two yellow cards against Brighton. His absence will be a significant blow, as his presence in the both the boxes is vital to Arsenal’s structure. Rice’s ability to break up opposition attacks and initiate play from deep has been a cornerstone of Arsenal’s success early in the season.
2. Martin Odegaard
Odegaard’s potential absence adds to Arsenal’s woes. The midfielder suffered a sprained ankle while playing for Norway against Austria, leaving the pitch in visible discomfort. Though initial scans showed no fracture, he is expected to be out for at least three weeks. His creativity and leadership will be sorely missed, leaving Arteta with a void to fill in the attacking midfield role.
3. Mikel Merino
Arsenal’s late summer signing, Mikel Merino, is also unavailable after fracturing his shoulder during his first training session with the team. He was expected to bolster the midfield alongside Rice, but his injury will keep him sidelined until at least mid-October. This leaves Arteta with limited options in the center of the park.
4. Gabriel Jesus
Gabriel Jesus, who has been dealing with a groin injury, could return just in time for the derby. The Brazilian forward missed Arsenal’s last two games but has been progressing well during the international break. If fit, his return would provide a huge boost to Arsenal’s attack.
5. Riccardo Calafiori
New signing Riccardo Calafiori also picked up an injury during Italy’s Nations League clash against France. Though the injury does not seem to be serious, it remains unclear if he will be fit to play against Spurs. If he’s unavailable, Arteta will likely turn to Jurrien Timber or Oleksandr Zinchenko at left-back.
Arsenal’s Weak Midfield Options
With Rice suspended, Odegaard a major doubt, and Merino sidelined, Arteta is left with limited options in midfield. Thomas Partey is expected to start, having featured in Arsenal’s first three games this season. However, his usual midfield partner is absent, and Arteta may need to rely on Jorginho, who has yet to play a minute this season. Jorginho, though experienced, lacks the physicality and dynamism of Rice, which could leave Arsenal vulnerable in midfield battles against Tottenham.
Arteta may also consider dropping Kai Havertz into a deeper midfield role. While primarily used as an attacking midfielder or striker, Havertz has the versatility to play in a No.8 role. This could be a temporary solution, especially given Havertz’s impressive start to the season. However, moving Havertz deeper may weaken Arsenal’s attack.
Raheem Sterling’s Debut
One silver lining for Arsenal is the potential debut of Raheem Sterling. The deadline-day loan signing has been training with the squad and is pushing for a starting spot. Sterling’s pace and direct style could offer a new dimension to Arsenal’s attack, especially on the left wing, where Gabriel Martinelli has struggled to find consistency this season. Sterling’s experience in big games could be invaluable in a high-pressure match like the North London derby.
Predicted Arsenal Lineup Against Spurs
Arsenal’s predicted lineup against Spurs will be heavily impacted by the injuries and suspensions plaguing the squad. With key players like Rice, Odegaard, and Merino unavailable, Mikel Arteta will have to rely on a mix of experience and versatility to navigate this crucial derby. The midfield, in particular, looks weak compared to previous lineups, but the inclusion of players like Jorginho and Havertz in deeper roles could help mitigate the damage.
The return of Gabriel Jesus and the potential debut of Raheem Sterling will be key to Arsenal’s attacking plans. As always, the North London derby promises to be an intense, high-stakes encounter, and Arsenal will need to dig deep to come away with a result.
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