The highly anticipated North London derby is quickly approaching, and Arsenal supporters are already talking about Mikel Arteta’s probable starting lineup against Tottenham on September 15. Arsenal will visit the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for one of the most anticipated and passionate matches of the season. However, the Gooners are concerned about their lineup due to injuries to important midfield players.
Declan Rice and Mikel Merino are both out of the game, which leaves Arsenal with very few options in the midfield. Thomas Partey and Jorginho haven’t quite matched each other physically, which raises questions about their ability to withstand the intense pressure from Spurs. Arteta may have to get inventive in this situation and play a versatile left-back in the midfield.
Oleksandr Zinchenko, a midfield regular for Ukraine, might be a logical selection for the left-central midfield (LCM) position. His superb passing and decision-making might give Arsenal the offensive momentum they need to win the match. Jurrien Timber, who is adaptable and can play multiple positions, or Riccardo Calafiori, who is renowned for his technical abilities, are other options to consider for the midfield position.
Here’s a possible starting XI that could help Arsenal take control of North London:
Raya;
Calafiori, Gabriel, Saliba, White;
Zinchenko, Partey, Odegaard;
Trossard, Havertz, Saka.
Although it may not appear to be Arsenal’s best lineup, it is a workable one that strikes a balance between defensive soundness and creativeness. Zinchenko’s presence in midfield may hold the key to breaking through Spurs’ defense, but Kai Havertz and the other members of the front three must play with precision.
How do you feel about this lineup? Is it sufficient to defeat our formidable opponents, or would you suggest making some adjustments?
