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Arsenal handed North London Derby blow due to Champions League schedule
By Kian Long
After the September international break, Arsenal fans are excited by the first North London derby of the season. However, it comes at an awkward time, with the Champions League schedule announced.
So far this season, Arsenal have won two Premier League matches and drawn one. Needless to say, the red card for Declan Rice was controversial but it sees the England international unavailable for the Tottenham match.
So, Arsenal have already suffered one massive blow in the buildup to the North London derby. Due to the Champions League schedule, Arsenal may have suffered another minor blow to their derby preparations.
Now that the Champions League schedule has been announced and dates are finalised, how does this impact Arsenal's match against Tottenham?
Arsenal handed North London Derby blow due to Champions League schedule
Arsenal were already aware of their Champions League opponents. However, fans were awaiting confirmation about kick-off dates.
Now, courtesy of UEFA, Arsenal know which dates and times they will play their Champions League opponents.
Firstly, they kick off the league phase against Europa League champions Atalanta on Thursday 19 September at 20:00, UK time.
This away fixture comes four days after the North London derby, so two consecutive away fixtures for Mikel Arteta. To make matters worse, Arsenal travel to the Etihad Stadium to face Premier League title rivals Man City just three days after the European away fixture.
So, squad rotation will be key for Arsenal in this busy period of big fixtures. Three big away ties in the space of a week could hit the Gunners hard and make Mikel Arteta regret his transfer market decisions.
As mentioned, Declan Rice is suspended for the North London derby. Also, Mikel Merino is injured for Arsenal, so this already leaves two strong midfield options out for Arsenal, at least in this fixture.
The summer transfer window saw many midfielders leave for Arsenal. Emile Smith Rowe, Fabio Vieira, Mohamed Elneny and Albert Sambi Lokonga leave the club for differing reasons. In the midfield, only Mikel Merino came in.
Of course, Arsenal still have what it takes to beat Tottenham. However, the congested fixture period and unfortunate events will test Arsenal's squad depth and energy levels.
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