Arsenal predicted XI vs Tottenham as Martin Odegaard option forces formation decision

Oslo, Norway - September 9: Norway Martin Odegaard injures during the UEFA Nations League 2024/2025 League B - Group 3 match between Norway and Austria at Ullevaal Stadium on September 9, 2024 in Oslo, Norway. (Photo by Annelie Cracchiolo/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)
Martin Odegaard is likely to miss out on Arsenal’s clash with Tottenham in the North London Derby. (Photo by Annelie Cracchiolo/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)

Mikel Arteta might be trying to play things down, but this is a huge week for Arsenal. The Gunners have three away trips that could, even at this early stage, define their season.

They kick off their Champions League campaign at Atalanta this coming Thursday before travelling to Manchester City on Sunday. Before that though, it’s the North London Derby.

Ahead of such a big week, Arteta would probably like to have his strongest team available. Unfortunately, the football gods have different ideas.

Summer signing Mikel Merino is definitely out with a shoulder problem, while Declan Rice is suspended after his harsh red card against Brighton. To add to that there is a huge doubt over Martin Odegaard after he sustained an ankle injury while on international duty with Norway. Riccardo Calafiori’s availability is also uncertain after a calf problem picked up with Italy.

With all that going on, Arteta has a huge selection headache as he seeks to face the biggest game of Arsenal’s season so far with one hand tied behind his back. Here, football.london takes a look at who the Spaniard might pick in his starting XI.

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