Arsenal's Saka and Odegaard fitness tests for Tottenham derby on Sunday

Arsenal's key players Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard are facing fitness tests before the big match against Tottenham on Sunday. Their availability could change everything.
By Newsroom | Football, London |

Arsenal faces a significant test in the North London derby against Tottenham, with manager Mikel Arteta navigating several selection choices. The team's recent performance, including a stumble against Wolves, has heightened the stakes. Decisions on the availability and roles of key players like Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard are central to how Arsenal will approach this crucial fixture. The team's ability to recover from recent setbacks and contend with Tottenham's new managerial setup under Igor Tudor will be closely observed.

Arsenal lineups vs Tottenham as decisions made on Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard - 1

Team News and Injury Status

Arsenal's squad for the Tottenham match presents a mixed picture, with some players returning from injury while others face late fitness assessments.

Arsenal lineups vs Tottenham as decisions made on Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard - 2

  • Martin Odegaard: The club captain has missed the last two matches due to a knee injury. His potential return is a significant factor for Arsenal's midfield and overall offensive shape. Some reports indicate he is expected to start, while others suggest he could be a substitute, especially if not fully fit.

  • Bukayo Saka: Saka has recently been deployed in a 'number 10' role during Odegaard's absence. His usual position is on the right wing. Decisions regarding his starting role and position are pending, with a late fitness test mentioned by some sources. His effectiveness in one-versus-one situations is noted as a consistent strength.

  • Leandro Trossard: Trossard sustained a head injury during the match against Wolves but has since received clearance from Mikel Arteta and is expected to be available.

  • Kai Havertz: Havertz has been sidelined with a hamstring issue. His readiness to start the derby is uncertain, with suggestions he might not be fully prepared to begin the match.

  • Other Defensive Considerations: Piero Hincapie is noted for his defensive contributions, and Jurrien Timber is mentioned as a potential right-back option. The established partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes in central defense is expected to be restored.

Predicted Formations and Tactical Approaches

Mikel Arteta is anticipated to deploy Arsenal in a 4-3-3 formation. This setup appears to be the most frequently predicted across various reports. The emphasis is expected to be on maintaining control of possession while also displaying intensity.

Read More: Tottenham vs Arsenal: Many Injuries for Spurs Affect Sunday Derby Match

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  • Defensive Line: David Raya is expected to start in goal, despite recent scrutiny following the Wolves game. The defensive unit is predicted to include Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, and Hincapie.

  • Midfield: The midfield is likely to feature Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi. The third spot appears contested, with Martin Odegaard's potential return playing a key role. Eze is also mentioned as a possibility in some predicted lineups. The focus will be on winning central duels and creating attacking opportunities.

  • Attack: The forward line is expected to see a combination of Saka, Gyokeres, and Trossard. However, there are discussions around the form of Viktor Gyokeres and the potential inclusion of Gabriel Jesus as an alternative striker. Leandro Trossard is predicted to start on the left wing.

Contrasting Player Assessments and Selection Dilemmas

The reports highlight several areas where expert opinions and predictions differ, particularly concerning player form and tactical deployment.

Arsenal lineups vs Tottenham as decisions made on Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard - 4

  • Viktor Gyokeres: His performance against Wolves, marked by zero shots and five miscontrols, has drawn criticism. This has led to questions about whether he will retain his starting position or be replaced by Gabriel Jesus.

  • Bukayo Saka's Role: While Saka is a consistent attacking threat, his deployment at the 'number 10' position in Odegaard's absence is a point of tactical flexibility. The decision to keep him there or return him to the right wing will impact the team's structure.

  • Goalkeeping Position: David Raya's position in goal has come under some discussion following his role in the Wolves comeback. His performance against Tottenham is anticipated to be a significant test.

Expert Analysis and Outlook

The prevailing sentiment is that Arsenal is facing a challenging period, particularly after dropping points in recent games. The north London derby presents an opportunity for the team to regroup and demonstrate resilience.

"Mikel Arteta has called for calm in testing times for his Arsenal team, after they dropped points for the second Premier League game running on Wednesday night." - SI.com

The article from SI.com also notes the importance of a strong performance from David Raya to respond to the recent scrutiny. The team's ability to secure a positive result is seen as crucial, especially in light of Manchester City's recent victory.

Conclusion and Forward Steps

Arsenal's lineup for the match against Tottenham remains subject to several key decisions, primarily concerning the fitness and tactical integration of Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard. The predicted 4-3-3 formation suggests a balanced approach, aiming to control the midfield and create scoring chances. The team's response to recent setbacks and their ability to overcome the tactical challenges presented by Tottenham's interim manager, Igor Tudor, will be critical. Further information regarding player fitness and final selection will likely emerge closer to the match.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will Bukayo Saka play in the North London Derby against Tottenham on Sunday?
Bukayo Saka's availability for the Tottenham derby is uncertain. He is undergoing a late fitness test. He has been playing in a different role recently, and his final position is still being decided.
Q: Is Martin Odegaard fit to play for Arsenal against Tottenham?
Martin Odegaard, Arsenal's captain, missed the last two games with a knee injury. He is expected to have a fitness test before the Tottenham match. He might start or be a substitute if not fully recovered.
Q: What is Arsenal's predicted formation for the Tottenham derby?
Arsenal is expected to play in a 4-3-3 formation against Tottenham. The team will focus on keeping the ball and playing with energy. Key decisions will be made on who plays in midfield and attack.
Q: Who else is injured or doubtful for Arsenal's match against Tottenham?
Kai Havertz has a hamstring problem and might not be ready to start. Leandro Trossard had a head injury but is cleared to play. The defense is expected to have Saliba and Gabriel in the middle.
Q: Why is Viktor Gyokeres's place in the team being questioned for the Tottenham game?
Viktor Gyokeres did not have a good game against Wolves, with no shots on goal. This has led to questions about whether he will start against Tottenham or if Gabriel Jesus will play instead.