As Arsenal prepares to face Tottenham, the potential lineup raises questions about the midfield configuration and the decision surrounding Raheem Sterling. Mikel Arteta must navigate these pivotal choices that could impact the title chase.
Mikel Arteta is confronted with crucial decisions that could define Arsenal’s title aspirations as they gear up for a significant North London Derby against Tottenham in the Premier League.
The team has faced several setbacks during the September international break, including Declan Rice’s red card and the disappointing draw against Brighton.
Prior to these challenges, Arsenal had secured victories against Wolves and Aston Villa, but the unexpected points dropped against Brighton have cast a shadow over their title ambitions.
A two-week break seemed timely for the squad, yet it may not have provided the relief they anticipated.
Midfield Conundrum
With the news of Odegaard’s injury, various midfield combinations have been proposed, but Arteta’s final choice remains uncertain.
It appears likely that Kai Havertz will be pushed back into a deeper role, but the identity of his partner alongside Thomas Partey is still up for debate.
Leandro Trossard, Jorginho, Jurrien Timber, and even Ethan Nwaneri are all contenders for a starting position in the Derby.
However, with Declan Rice unavailable, the decision may become clearer. Given the significance of the match, Arteta might opt to include Jorginho in his starting lineup.
Sterling Consideration
While Trossard began on the left against Brighton, he has the versatility to play in midfield or as a forward.
If Havertz is moved deeper, it would open up an attacking position, potentially allowing Gabriel Martinelli to return to the lineup. Nevertheless, Arteta might consider a bold move by starting Raheem Sterling.
Having spent the last fortnight training with the loan signing at London Colney, Arteta will have a good sense of Sterling’s readiness.
Although Sterling has been training primarily as a right winger and could serve as a backup to Saka, he possesses the ability to operate effectively on both flanks.
Odegaard’s anticipated absence not only necessitates a decision regarding the midfield but also raises questions about the captaincy.
The 25-year-old has served as the club captain for the past two years, but he will not hold that role this weekend.
Given their experience, Thomas Partey, Jorginho, or even Gabriel Jesus could be considered for the captaincy, although Bukayo Saka appears to be the most suitable choice.
The England international has previously taken on leadership duties, and leading his team in a North London Derby would be a significant moment.
Regarding left-back options, if Arteta decides to deploy Timber in midfield rather than having him invert from the left-back position, he has several alternatives available.
Riccardo Calafiori, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Jakub Kiwior are all capable of filling that role, with Takehiro Tomiyasu also a possibility, although he is currently sidelined due to injury.
Calafiori has frequently been brought on in the latter stages to strengthen Arsenal’s defense, and given the upcoming challenge, the Italy international is likely to step in for Timber if he is moved forward.
However, following an injury sustained during international duty, Calafiori’s fitness is not guaranteed, which may lead Arteta to stick with his original plan and start Timber at full-back, though alternatives are available.
While not the primary focus, Arteta will likely keep an eye on the upcoming Champions League match against Atalanta and the subsequent trip to Manchester City.
Considering the significance of the week ahead, the Gunners’ manager may adjust his starting lineup, as it is improbable that every player will feature in all three matches.
Players like Gabriel Jesus, Zinchenko, Kiwior, Jorginho, and Sterling will be eager for a chance, but Arteta may not accommodate all of them.
The Spaniard has previously been assertive about rotation, but the demanding fixture schedule and existing injuries within his squad may ultimately compel him to make changes.
