What To Know Heading Into the Latest North London Derby

Image: AP Photo / PA

LONDON, U.K. - The first North London derby of the Premier League season is coming up! Based on Tottenham and Arsenal’s form heading into this fixture, this match could be one of the closest North London derbies in recent history. Here’s everything you need to know heading into this intense derby.

Club Positions (per premierleague.com/tables):

• Tottenham: second place with 13 points

• Arsenal: fourth place with 13 points

Recent Premier League Head-to-head Matchups (per espn.com):

• Arsenal 2-0 Tottenham

• Arsenal 3-1 Tottenham

• Tottenham 3-0 Arsenal

• Arsenal 3-1 Tottenham

Players to Watch for Both Teams:

• For Arsenal: Declan Rice

• For Tottenham: James Maddison

Declan Rice is a bit of a surprising choice considering the attack Arsenal possess, but if Arsenal are going to stop Tottenham’s attacks, Rice will play a key role. Along with this, Rice’s defensive ability will allow Ødegaard and Havertz to press forward more into the attack without severely exposing Arsenal’s defense. He even possesses the ability to pop up with an important goal. 

James Maddison will be the player to watch for Tottenham because if Tottenham are to control the midfield and create chances, Maddison will be pivotal. Look for him to assist the likes of Dejan Kulusevski, Heung-min Son, or potentially come up with a goal himself.

Prediction:

• Arsenal 3-2 Tottenham

Although Tottenham have come a long way from where they were last season, it is difficult to see them overcoming this strong Arsenal side. Arsenal arguably have the stronger all-round team, especially in terms of defenses. Tottenham will put up a good fight and even score some goals, but in the end, Arsenal will prove to be too much and will defeat this Tottenham side.