Arsenal’s defence was on top form against Tottenham in the North London Derby last weekend, a performance that shouldn’t really shock anyone considering their defensive record over the past year.
In the 2023/24 Premier League season, Arsenal boasted the best defence, letting in just 29 goals in their 38 matches. Remarkably, they managed to keep Manchester City at bay in both encounters, securing a 1-0 victory at the Emirates Stadium and a goalless draw at the Etihad Stadium.
Despite missing key players like Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice in the match against Spurs, Mikel Arteta’s side adopted a more defensive approach. After scoring, they successfully defended their lead with minimal difficulty.
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Odegaard will also be absent for the upcoming trip to City this weekend, which could result in another resolute, rather than expansive, display from the Gunners. Any strategy that can outwit Pep Guardiola’s team is welcome.
A crucial showdown on the day will be between Erling Haaland and the Arsenal centre-backs. Haaland has already netted nine Premier League goals this season, finding the back of the net in every game so far, reports Football London.
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Halting the Norwegian striker is no easy task, but Arsenal have proven they’re up to the challenge. However, it might necessitate a slight shift in strategy from Arteta’s centre-backs.
Haaland had quite the scrap with Gabriel Magalhaes in that 0-0 stalemate at the Etihad, with the Brazilian ace shadowing City’s hotshot striker across the pitch – almost a man-on-man masterclass. And it was spot on.
After the final whistle, the dynamic duo were spotted exchanging a few words, all smiles after their intense on-pitch spar. Overheard during the friendly banter, Haaland popped the question, “It’s OK? ” with Gabriel chuckling back, “It’s OK.”
(Image: Getty Images)
Come Sunday, expect Gabriel to be Haaland’s shadow once more when the rivals lock horns.
But sticking to the Norwegian goal machine might mean tweaking Arsenal’s defensive script.