As Arsenal and Tottenham head into the international break, both clubs are left grappling with frustration and disappointment.
The Premier League weekend was packed with drama, and two of the league’s top teams were not spared. Arsenal’s draw against Brighton and Tottenham’s wasteful performance against Newcastle United have raised questions that will loom over both sides as they prepare for the highly anticipated North London derby after the break.
Arsenal’s Frustration with Declan Rice’s Red Card
For Arsenal, the 1-1 draw with Brighton was a bitter pill to swallow. The Gunners had been in strong form, winning their opening three matches of the season, but the draw at the Amex Stadium marked the first time they dropped points in the new campaign. Adding to their woes was the controversial sending-off of Declan Rice, who received two yellow cards in quick succession and was subsequently sent off.
The red card left Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and fans alike fuming. Rice, who joined Arsenal in a club-record transfer from West Ham United, has quickly become a linchpin in the Gunners’ midfield. His absence in the second half against Brighton was palpable, with the team struggling to control the game and create meaningful chances. Ian Wright, the Arsenal legend, voiced his concerns on Premier League Productions, noting that Rice’s suspension is a “big blow” ahead of the North London derby.
Ian Wright’s Concerns Ahead of the Derby
Ian Wright, a figure synonymous with Arsenal’s attacking prowess during his playing days, didn’t hold back in expressing his concerns. “Yeah, it’s a big blow,” Wright said, referring to Rice’s suspension. “I think it’s a big blow for us simply because he is so integral to everything that we are doing. If Declan (Rice) is on the pitch for the second half (against Brighton) then we would probably win that game. He is a big miss.”
Wright’s worries are understandable. Rice’s ability to break up play, control the tempo, and provide a defensive shield in front of the backline has been crucial to Arsenal’s early-season success. Without him, the Gunners lose not only a physical presence but also a player who can link defense and attack seamlessly.
The inability to appeal Rice’s red card only adds to the frustration. Despite the general consensus that the second yellow card was harsh, Arsenal must now prepare for the derby without one of their most influential players. This development undoubtedly adds extra spice to what is already one of the most fiercely contested fixtures in English football.
Tottenham’s Woes and Missed Opportunities
While Arsenal grapples with Rice’s suspension, Tottenham has their own issues to address. Spurs were left to rue missed opportunities in their 2-1 loss to Newcastle United. The defeat was particularly painful because it followed a familiar pattern: Tottenham created numerous chances but failed to capitalize on them. The loss not only handed Newcastle three points but also cast doubt on Tottenham’s ability to finish off games—a concern that could haunt them in the derby.
Tottenham’s attacking duo of Son Heung-min and Harry Kane (now at Bayern Munich) has long been the team’s focal point, but with Kane gone, the responsibility has fallen even more heavily on Son’s shoulders. Against Newcastle, Son and his teammates were wasteful, squandering several gilt-edged chances that could have changed the outcome of the game. This inefficiency in front of goal is something that manager Ange Postecoglou will need to address urgently if Spurs are to compete with an Arsenal side that, despite Rice’s absence, remains dangerous.
Arsenal’s Midfield Dilemma
The big question for Arteta heading into the North London derby is how to set up his midfield without Rice. The Gunners have options, but none that fully replace what Rice brings to the table. Thomas Partey and Martin Odegaard are likely to start, with the remaining spot up for grabs. The most obvious choice would be Jorginho, who, despite being a different type of player, brings experience and composure to the midfield.
However, Arsenal’s options are limited by injuries as well. Mikel Merino, signed before the transfer deadline, picked up an injury in his first training session, ruling him out of contention. Jurrien Timber, who has impressed since returning from injury, is versatile enough to slot into the midfield, but Arteta may prefer to rely on Jorginho’s experience in such a high-stakes match.
Tottenham’s Approach to the Derby
On the other side, Tottenham will be eager to exploit any weaknesses in Arsenal’s makeshift midfield. Postecoglou’s side has shown glimpses of their potential this season, and the derby presents an opportunity to make a statement. With Kane no longer in the squad, Spurs will need to find a way to maximize the talents of their remaining attacking players. The likes of Son, James Maddison, and Richarlison will need to be clinical in front of goal if they are to take advantage of Arsenal’s weakened midfield.
A Derby with High Stakes
The stakes are always high in the North London derby, but this edition feels particularly significant. Both teams are looking to bounce back from disappointing results, and the outcome could set the tone for the rest of their seasons. For Arsenal, a win would reinforce their status as title contenders, while for Tottenham, a victory would serve as a statement that they can compete at the highest level, even without Kane.
As the international break looms, both Arsenal and Tottenham have much to ponder. For Arteta, the challenge is to find a way to mitigate the loss of Rice and ensure that his team remains competitive. For Postecoglou, the task is to sharpen his side’s finishing and ensure that they are ready to capitalize on any Arsenal mistakes. One thing is certain: when the two sides meet after the break, the North London derby will once again live up to its reputation as one of the most fiercely contested matches in world football.
