Arsenal, despite their strong performances in recent years, seem likely to fall short of the Premier League title this season. Currently in second place, they trail Liverpool by six points, having played an extra game. Arsenal has proven tough to beat, with their last league loss dating back to early November.
They recently enjoyed a string of victories, defeating Crystal Palace (5-1), Ipswich (1-0), and Brentford (3-1), but their momentum was slowed by a 1-1 draw against Brighton.
A 2-0 defeat at home to Newcastle in the first leg of the League Cup semi-finals further dampened their form. Arsenal also hosted Manchester United in the FA Cup and continues to aim for direct qualification to the Champions League Round of 16, where they currently sit third in their group.
Tottenham, meanwhile, has struggled significantly this season, sitting 12th in the Premier League with 24 points from 20 matches. They are 10 points away from European qualification and have managed only one win in their last eight league games, a victory over bottom-placed Southampton. During this period, they recorded two draws and five losses, including a 2-1 defeat at home to Newcastle.
Despite their league difficulties, Tottenham surprised many with a 1-0 win over Liverpool in the League Cup semi-final first leg. They also recently faced Tamworth in the FA Cup and currently hold ninth place in the Europa League standings, requiring more consistent performances to secure a Round of 16 spot.
Arsenal will be missing key players for this clash. Bukayo Saka is sidelined, alongside defender Ben White, substitute Tomiyasu, and young prospect Ethan Nwaneri.
Gabriel Jesus, who has had a quiet season with just three league goals, has shown signs of improvement and is expected to start. He will likely be supported by Kai Havertz (7 goals, 2 assists), Gabriel Martinelli (5 goals, 2 assists), and Leandro Trossard (3 goals, 2 assists).
Tottenham faces significant challenges with injuries and absentees. Key players out include first-choice goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, defenders Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, and Destiny Udogie, as well as midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur.
Backup players Ben Davies, Odobert, and Richarlison are also unavailable, while Fraser Forster’s participation is uncertain. Despite these setbacks, newly signed Czech goalkeeper Kinsky impressed in the League Cup semi-final against Arsenal.
Tottenham still boasts strong attacking options, including James Maddison (8 goals, 4 assists), Dominic Solanke (7 goals, 3 assists), Brennan Johnson (7 goals, 2 assists), Son Heung-min (5 goals, 6 assists), and Dejan Kulusevski (5 goals, 4 assists). The team recently strengthened its squad by signing South Korean winger Min-hyeok Yang.
Prediction
Arsenal has only had one goalless draw in their last 20 Premier League home matches, while Tottenham hasn’t experienced a goalless result in their last 42 league games. With both teams possessing plenty of attacking firepower, a lively match with goals is anticipated. Arsenal’s strong home record gives them a slight advantage in this encounter.
Prediction: Arsenal 2-1 Tottenham
