Predicted Arsenal lineup vs Tottenham: Trossard or Martinelli?

Derby day is upon us, and what a game we have in store!

Arsenal dominated both matchups last season against their distinctly inferior north London rivals, but the arrival of Ange Postecoglou has emboldened the Lilywhites and the visitors will undoubtedly be confident of securing their first Premier League victory at the Emirates since 2010.

The Gunners, though, remain a majestic force. Deep-lying defences have ensured Mikel Arteta’s side haven’t blown anyone away at the start of the new season, but they’ve nonetheless enjoyed a productive opening.

Their true attacking potency manifested on Wednesday night, with PSV’s brave defensive approach allowing Arsenal to run riot on their Champions League return. Their European victory was the surge in momentum the Gunners needed ahead of Sunday’s derby, with Arteta having a few selection headaches to solve.

Predicted Arsenal lineup vs Tottenham

Here’s the starting XI the boss could pick for the first North London Derby of the 2023/24 campaign.

Goalkeeper & Defenders

David Raya (GK) – It looks like the Gunners have got a new number one.

Ben White (RB) – While he may not like the sport itself, White relishes these occasions and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him divulge in some sh*thousery against Arsenal’s fiercest rivals.

William Saliba (CB) – A supreme performer who announced himself to the Premier League with a dominant performance in this fixture last season.

Gabriel (CB) – There’s no Harry Kane for Gabriel to think about on Sunday, with the Brazilian set to be tasked with dealing with Son Heung-min up top for the visitors as well as Pape Matar Sarr’s surges through the right half-space.

Oleksandr Zinchenko (LB) – Arsenal’s big lead on Wednesday meant Zinchenko was withdrawn early ahead of Sunday’s game. He should be fresh for the derby.

Midfielders

Declan Rice (DM) – Rice has been excellent so far, and he has a big role to play on Sunday as he’ll see a lot of Tottenham’s creative talisman, James Maddison.

Kai Havertz (CM) – The German produced a more positive showing in the week, and he might’ve done enough to retain his place. Arteta is desperate for Havertz to shine in this role.

Martin Odegaard (CM) – What better way to celebrate the announcement of your new deal than with a majestic showing in the derby?

Forwards

Bukayo Saka (RW) – Saka’s return to form was timely ahead of Sunday’s clash. Our starboy starred on his Champions League debut as he set up Arsenal’s emphatic triumph. An exciting duel with Destiny Udogie beckons.

Gabriel Jesus (ST) – The Brazilian was back to his best in the week, and while Eddie Nketiah has done little wrong, Jesus has to be the leading man when fit and available.

Leandro Trossard (LW) – While Gabriel Martinelli hasn’t yet been ruled out, Arteta would be wise to stick with Trossard. The Belgian has been on fire in the final third in Arsenal’s previous two outings.