3 reasons why playing against ‘Ange Ball’ could be perfect for Arsenal in NLD

Arsenal play host to the first North London derby of the 2023/24 campaign, welcoming Tottenham Hotspur to the Emirates Stadium for the first time under Ange Postecoglou. 

Both sides come into the clash level on points in the Premier League, having each earned a respectable 13 points from their first 15 available.

However, whereas in recent years the Gunners would be expecting their fierce rivals to deploy a low block and play counterattacking football, new manager Ange Postecoglou brings with him a new philosophy at Tottenham.

In their opening five fixtures, Spurs have played attacking football that, as much as it pains me to say, has been very good on the eye, and with Postecoglou not usually the type of manager to alter his playing style, the visitors will likely attempt to go toe-to-toe with Arsenal in this match.

Here are three reasons why that could be the perfect scenario for Mikel Arteta men…

3 reasons why playing against ‘Ange Ball’ could be perfect for Arsenal

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Reason #1: High-pressing

The first reason is that Tottenham’s new-found attacking style of play has seen them increase the frequency at which they attempt to play out from the back.  This has led to Postecoglou’s side becoming a possession-based team, and as per FBREF, Tottenham have recorded the fourth most touches in their own defensive third this season, with 1,105.

Under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal have become an excellent pressing side, which was displayed to a very high level against PSV in the Champions League midweek, and therefore, will be confident that they will be able to force Spurs into potentially costly mistakes.

If Tottenham are unable to stay composed and play through our press, then players such as Gabriel Jesus, Leandro Trossard, and Bukayo Saka may be gifted chances in front of goal.

Continued on the next slide…