Sports Mole

Arsenal's chances of success in the North London derby could hinge on one particular Mikel Arteta selection, and it is not in defence, Gunners expert Charles Watts has told Sports Mole.

The Premier League leaders host bitter rivals Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday afternoon lamenting the absence of defensive cornerstone Gabriel Magalhaes, whom Arteta has confirmed will be out for a few weeks at least with the hamstring injury he suffered while representing Brazil this month.

Gabriel could be one of two rearguard regulars missing for Arsenal this weekend, as Riccardo Calafiori has not trained since leaving the Italy camp with a hip injury, although the likes of Piero Hincapie and Cristhian Mosquera can provide more than adequate cover for their defensive colleagues.

The same cannot be said up front, though, as Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz (both knee) will miss out, while Viktor Gyokeres remains a doubt due to his hamstring injury - Arteta refused to specify his availability for the derby in his pre-game press conference.

However, the derby will be a "completely different game" in a bad way if Arsenal are forced to play Mikel Merino up front, according to Watts, who said: “It's really important for Arsenal that Gyokeres makes it.

"I don't know yet if that's going to happen - it'll be a late decision. But Arsenal would have been doing everything they could for him to be fit, because it's just a completely different game if it’s Merino playing up.

Arsenal vs. Tottenham a "completely different game" with Mikel Merino

“They're not going to have someone stretching that Tottenham defence, pulling them down the channels like they would with Gyokeres making the runs we've seen him make so well. It’s a huge contest if he is fit for them, and it's one that Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard will benefit from because there will be space.

“He will drag Van de Ven, Cristian Romero out of position. If it’s Merino, that just won't happen. Merino’s got his qualities and can score goals. But I said this last week – if you asked Van de Ven and Romero who would you rather mark, I think we all know exactly what their answer would be.”

Merino has been chalking up the goal contributions for Arsenal since Gyokeres's injury, scoring two of his own against Slavia Prague in the Champions League before setting up Bukayo Saka's goal in the 2-2 draw with Sunderland two weekends ago.

That four-goal stalemate ended Arsenal's marvellous run of 10 successive wins and eight consecutive clean sheets across all competitions, but Arteta's men have won each of their last five at the Emirates Stadium without shipping a single goal.

However, the Gunners' arch-rivals possess the best away record in the Premier League after 11 gameweeks, winning four and drawing one of their five matches on enemy territory, compared to their meagre five points from six home contests.

Watts has therefore warned Arsenal to be wary of Tottenham counter-attacks, but Arteta and co should not be too fearful of Spurs' stellar away record because, simply put, the Gunners are the "better team".

Why Arsenal should not worry about Tottenham's stellar away form

“I don't think it'll worry Arsenal," Watts said when asked about Tottenham's away form. "It's certainly something that people will talk about before the game, it's a warranted discussion because Tottenham have been very, very good on the road. But I don't think Arsenal will be worried.

“There's no way Arsenal will be worried about Tottenham. They'll go into it thinking they're going to win, they're a stronger team. Tottenham are a good side, clearly they've got some weird psychological barrier playing at home. But away from home, they just feel a little bit freer.

“Maybe they're a team that enjoy the space, can play on the counter-attack a lot better, and they're going to get more opportunities to do that away from home. It's something Arsenal are going to have to be mindful of, trying not to leave as much space to be exposed on the counter.

“But Arsenal are going to focus on themselves. If Arsenal play well, if they do the good things right that they usually do, then in my mind, they win this game because they're the better team. It's as simple as that.”

While Arsenal could be missing eight players for the North London derby, Spurs have received a sensational eight injury boosts before their trip to the Emirates, where they have not prevailed in the Premier League since 2010.

> Click here to listen to the full Arsenal vs. Tottenham North London derby preview

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The 198th North London derby graces our TV screens on Sunday afternoon, when Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur vie for bragging rights and precious Premier League points.

The Gunners will extend their advantage over their bitter rivals to a staggering 11 points with success on their own soil, and here Sports Mole rounds up the team news for both clubs.

ARSENAL vs. TOTTENHAM

ARSENAL

Out:Â Gabriel Jesus (ACL), Gabriel Magalhaes (thigh), Kai Havertz (knee), Martin Odegaard (knee)

Doubtful:Â Viktor Gyokeres (hamstring), Noni Madueke (knee), Riccardo Calafiori (hip), Gabriel Martinelli (muscle)

Sports Mole's predicted XI:Â Raya; Timber, Saliba, Mosquera, Hincapie; Eze, Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Merino, Trossard

TOTTENHAM

Out:Â Dominic Solanke (ankle), Yves Bissouma (ankle), Dejan Kulusevski (knee), James Maddison (ACL)

Doubtful: Mohammed Kudus (knock), Archie Gray (calf), Koto Takai (thigh), Radu Dragusin (fitness), Ben Davies (thigh)

Sports Mole's predicted XI:Â Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence; Palhinha, Sarr; Kudus, Simons, Odobert; Richarlison

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Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank is likely to have seven and potentially as many as eight injured players back for Sunday's Premier League North London derby with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.

The Dane revealed in his pre-match press conference that Pape Sarr, Lucas Bergvall and Randal Kolo Muani are all raring to go, although the latter will sport a protective mask in the wake of his jaw fracture.

In addition, Mohammed Kudus, Archie Gray, Kota Takai and Ben Davies are all in team training, as is Radu Dragusin, who is on the verge of a long-awaited competitive comeback after an ACL injury.

However, even if the Romanian is passed fit to make the matchday squad, he is not displacing Cristian Romero or Micky van de Ven in defence, where Pedro Porro, Djed Spence and Guglielmo Vicario also reside.

Sarr's return from a knock could prove pivotal, though, as the Senegal international should link arms with Joao Palhinha in the middle if he is fit to start, thus forcing Rodrigo Bentancur to accept a substitute cameo.

Kudus is also expected to displace Brennan Johnson on the right-hand side, and Frank could make an unenforced change on the left flank, where Wilson Odobert is a candidate to make the first XI.

The Frenchman could force his way into the side if Richarlison replaces Kolo Muani in the striker's slot, while Xavi Simons will do his utmost to pull the creative strings from his number 10 position.

Tottenham Hotspur possible starting lineup:

Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence; Palhinha, Sarr; Kudus, Simons, Odobert; Richarlison

> Click here to see how Arsenal could line up for the derby

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Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing Crystal Palace hero Jean-Philippe Mateta in January.

The 28-year-old has enjoyed a marvellous rise at the top level of football in recent times, starting to become a regular on the international stage for France.

Mateta has now scored in back-to-back international windows for Les Bleus, finding the net against Iceland and Azerbaijan in October and November respectively.

On the club front, Palace are supposedly in talks with the towering marksman regarding an improved and extended contract at Selhurst Park.

Since securing a permanent move from Mainz to South London during January 2022, Mateta has netted an impressive 51 goals across 155 appearances.

Man United want Mateta in January?

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Manchester United are targeting striker reinforcements in the winter following the injury to Benjamin Sesko.

Although the problem with the Slovenian is not said to be too serious, the report states that the Red Devils are still looking at a swoop for Mateta.

With 18 months left on his current terms in the capital, the 28-year-old is reportedly not rushing into a new agreement with the Eagles.

As a result, Oliver Glasner's men might need to offload when possible in the summer, with a price tag of £40m supposedly placed on the Frenchman.

As well as Ruben Amorim's Man United, it is believed that Europa League winners Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United have also shown interest in the striker.

Targeting a World Cup berth

After helping Crystal Palace to lift their first-ever major trophy last season, Mateta is a well-known star on the domestic scene in England.

This term has seen the forward's stature grow on the international stage, with the marksman making a case for a spot in France's World Cup squad.

Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta could be missing both Gabriel Magalhaes and Riccardo Calafiori for Sunday's Premier League North London derby at home to Tottenham Hotspur.

The Gunners are guaranteed to be missing Gabriel due to the thigh injury he picked up while playing for Brazil, while Calafiori is yet to train following a hip problem, according to Arteta.

Reports claimed that Calafiori's hip issue was more due to overload than anything sinister, though, and Arsenal fans have learned to take any Arteta updates before a big game with a pinch of salt.

However, with Bayern Munich and Chelsea on the horizon, Calafiori could be spared thanks to the presence of Piero Hincapie, whom Arteta has repeatedly waxed lyrical about since his summer arrival.

The Ecuador international could start at left-back with Cristhian Mosquera occupying the Gabriel role alongside William Saliba, as the former Valencia man is equally adept as a left centre-back as he is on the right-hand side.

Martin Odegaard's comeback from a knee injury is not expected to occur this weekend, so expect Eberechi Eze to continue in the midfield trident against his former admirers, joining Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice in the engine room.

Doubts also linger over Viktor Gyokeres's availability, so emergency striker Mikel Merino is anticipated to continue alongside Bukayo Saka and the in-form Leandro Trossard in the final third.

Arsenal possible starting lineup:

Raya; Timber, Saliba, Mosquera, Hincapie; Eze, Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Merino, Trossard

> Click here to see how Spurs could line up for the derby

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed that Gabriel Magalhaes will be sidelined for "weeks" with the muscular injury he sustained while representing Brazil during the international break, but he was coy about other players' availabilities.

The Gunners were optimistic of receiving several pieces of good news on the fitness front over the international period, but instead they were rocked by witnessing Gabriel limp off injured in Brazil's friendly win over Senegal.

The 27-year-old was revealed to have sustained a thigh injury, and reports have now suggested that he faces between one and two months on the sidelines, potentially ruling him out for the rest of 2025.

Gabriel's injury comes at the worst possible time for Arsenal, who host Tottenham Hotspur in Sunday's North London derby before subsequent showdowns against Bayern Munich and Chelsea before the end of the month.

Speaking to the media in his pre-Spurs press conference, Arteta delivered the latest on Gabriel's condition, although he admitted that the centre-back will need more examinations to determine the length of his absence.

Arsenal's Gabriel out for "weeks", Mikel Arteta confirms

"Gabi is unfortunately picked up an injury with the national team. He will be out for weeks," Arteta said. "We need to have another scan next Wednesday. We will have the timeline much more clearly than we have at the moment.

"It's clearly a blow. It's our leader in our back line. To miss him is never a positive thing. The good thing is we have some very good options. They need to stand up now."

One player who could fill in for Gabriel is Riccardo Calafiori, who is expected to be OK for the derby despite picking up a hip problem while on international duty, but Arteta revealed that the Italy international is still yet to train since returning.

"He wasn't available. He's been carrying a few things. We had to bring him back. He hasn't trained yet. We have another session tomorrow. Let's see," the Spaniard responded.

Could Viktor Gyokeres, Gabriel Martinelli, Martin Odegaard return vs. Spurs?

Calafiori is not the only uncertainty for the Gunners, who are also sweating over all of Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Odegaard, Gabriel Martinelli, Noni Madueke and Kai Havertz for gameweek 12 due to their fitness concerns.

It is believed that every member of the quintet could either be back for the North London derby or before the end of the month, but Arteta kept his cards close to his chest when asked in his pre-game press conference.

"We put a lot of energy in the international break with the medical staff to try to bring them back as quickly as possible," Arteta replied.

"Tomorrow we have another training session to see how they are feeling, if this game is too close or they can have a contribution in the game."

Gabriel Jesus is now training fully with the team after his ACL injury, but the visit of Tottenham is expected to come too soon for the Brazilian striker, who will most likely return to senior action in late December or early January.

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Tottenham Hotspur have received an astounding eight injury boosts ahead of Sunday's critical North London derby battle with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in the Premier League.

Spurs boss Thomas Frank has been grappling with a fitness crisis for weeks on end, and the Lilywhites were without 10 players for their 2-2 draw with Manchester United just before the international break.

The Europa League champions were then dealt another two blows after kickoff two weekends ago, as Randal Kolo Muani firstly suffered a serious facial injury, which was confirmed to have been a jaw fracture.

Spurs then saw midfielder Pape Sarr sustain a knock while on international duty with Senegal, while fellow lynchpin Lucas Bergvall could not take part in the Red Devils draw as a result of the concussion he sustained against Chelsea.

Spurs receive eight injury boosts for Arsenal contest

However, Frank confirmed at his pre-game press conference that all three are on course to be fit for the Emirates showdown, saying: "They are good, most of them.

"Pape trained today, is ready. Lucas trained today, ready and available. Kolo Muani trained today, available with a mask he needs to play with.

In addition, ACL victim Radu Dragusin is now on the cusp of a competitive return after playing a friendly with the Under-21s during the hiatus, while Mohammed Kudus (knock), Ben Davies (thigh), Kota Takai (quad) and Archie Gray (calf) are all in team training.

"Radu is in full training. Played his first 45 minutes in nine months last week. Trained fully today. He is very close to being selected. Kota and Ben both trained with the team today. Archie trained with the team today," Frank added, before saying on Kudus: "He trained today and is available."

Which Tottenham players are still out injured?

An unprecedented eight injury boosts means that Tottenham's squad is suddenly looking a whole lot healthier, but Frank will still be without a handful of players for his first taste of a North London derby.

Creators Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison remain on the sidelines due to their knee injuries, while Yves Bissouma is on the mend from ankle surgery, and no timeframe has been placed on his comeback.

In addition, Dominic Solanke is still not ready to return from an ankle procedure of his own, and Frank was also loath to say when the striker might return, adding: "Dom's not ready yet, he had an article where he spoke about it.

"It's the same, we are very aware that when we put him out there we want to be as sure as can be that there are no setbacks going forward. I'm comfortable he will soon be ready but I don't want to put a timeframe on it."

Tottenham lie four places and eight points worse off than Arsenal in the Premier League table and are bidding to end a run of three successive derby defeats in Sunday's Premier League main event.

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Former Arsenal right-back Bacary Sagna has spoken about Gabriel Magalhaes’s absence from the Gunners' squad for Sunday’s North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.

The strong centre-back sustained a thigh injury during international duty with Brazil, which could sideline him for one or two months.

Although the prognosis is still uncertain, the defender will definitely miss the first North London derby of the 2025-26 season.

Arsenal aim to at least preserve their four-point lead at the top of the Premier League table after the November international break.

Although they will face the busy festive period without their star defender, Sagna has backed his former teammate to find solutions.

North London derby: Sagna expresses confidence in Arteta without Gabriel

Despite the unfortunate timing of the injury, the former full-back still believes Arsenal will have enough quality to secure a victory, especially playing at the Emirates Stadium.Â

“Gabriel is a rock, he’s so important to the squad,” Sagna told Standard Sport. “He’s a natural leader and on set-pieces, he's terrific. He’s been one of the top central defenders in Europe for a long time now.

“With William Saliba, he’s formed one of best central defensive partnerships I’ve seen for a long time. Â

“Mikel Arteta is so good at finding solutions, so I’m sure he’ll discover a way to get Arsenal set up well against Tottenham. Â

“But obviously not having Gabriel available is not good, with everything he can offer at both ends of the pitch. Â

“I still think they’ll have enough to win, especially at home. But the sooner Gabriel is back in the team, the better!”

North London derby:Â How can Arsenal replace Gabriel?

Arsenal have several options to cover Gabriel's absence, with Piero Hincapie or Christhian Mosquera likely replacements at left centre-back.

Hincapie is a left-footed defender, making him the most natural choice to keep balance alongside William Saliba, although his game time has been limited this season due to injury.

Despite being right-footed, Mosquera has impressed when called upon and has previously played comfortably on the left side of central defence.

Another tactical possibility involves shifting Riccardo Calafiori from his in-form left-back position into centre-back, which would require a replacement on the flank.

While less likely for the centre-back role, Ben White could also be an option to provide experience, partnering with Saliba.

Ultimately, the decision will depend on Arteta's confidence in match fitness and his tactical approach to dealing with Spurs’ attack.

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Tottenham transfer target Ivan Toney is reportedly prepared to take a pay cut in order to return to the Premier League in January.

The 29-year-old is currently plying his trade with Al-Ahli in the Middle East, scoring five goals from seven Saudi Pro League appearances so far this season.

Recent reports suggested that Toney would be unable to secure a switch back to England in the New Year, citing issues surrounding his wages.

After playing an important part for England at Euro 2024, the striker is desperate to get back in contention for a spot at next summer's World Cup.

Toney has performed well by his standards in Saudi Arabia, netting 41 goals across 59 matches since switching West London for Al-Ahli in August 2024.

Tottenham-linked Toney 'ready to take pay cut'

According to TEAMtalk, England international Toney is preparing to do anything he can to secure a spot in Thomas Tuchel's squad next June.

The report claims that the 29-year-old is pushing hard for a return to the Premier League during the January window, with Spurs the current front runners in the race for his services.

It is understood that Toney is willing to slash his weekly wages in half to £200,000 in order to ply his trade in England for the second half of the term.

As well as Tottenham, it is believed that West Ham United and Chelsea are considering possible moves for the former Brentford marksman.

Everton are also supposedly keen on signing Toney in January, with the Toffees seeking assurances over the player's long-term commitment to the Merseyside club.

Toney's England game

First things first, it is undeniable that Bayern Munich sensation Harry Kane will lead the line for England at next summer's World Cup barring a heartbreaking injury.

Consequently, there is currently a race to play second fiddle to the Three Lions legend in North America - one which Toney is losing out in the more time he spends in Saudi Arabia.

Dominic Solanke has issued an update on his injury ahead of Tottenham Hotspur's Premier League clash against Arsenal this weekend.Â

The former AFC Bournemouth striker is the most expensive signing for Spurs to date, but he has struggled badly with his fitness.Â

Solanke has made only substitute appearances this season, all in August, and has been missing for the past few months due to a recurrent ankle injury.Â

Thomas Frank initially suggested that the England striker's injury is not serious, but he has since undergone surgery.Â

Solanke opens up about his injury situation

The Spurs boss suggested at the start of November that he hopes to get Solanke back in action before the end of the year, but as of now, there is no clarity about when he can return.Â

Solanke himself has now made it clear that he is unsure when he can return to playing for Spurs, but he is hopeful it will not be too long.Â

“It’s been very difficult,” Solanke told The Athletic. “At first, I didn’t think I would be out for too long but we didn’t really understand the extent of the injury. I was trying to get back as quickly as I could but it didn’t happen, so I had to have surgery.

“Since then, I have been working to get back. I’m not putting a timeline on it because I’ve been telling everyone ‘I’m going to be back soon’ for the last few months. I’m taking it day by day but hopefully I won’t be much longer.”

While the 28-year-old is slowly edging towards a comeback, he will reportedly miss the crucial Premier League clash against Arsenal after the international break, and will not be available for the Champions League clash against PSG.Â

Solanke, however, has seen external specialists over his injury, and he has reportedly returned to gym work; so, it should not be long before he can return to complete training with the squad.Â

Tottenham injury problemsÂ

Spurs have badly missed the former Liverpool striker, and they failed to create enough open, clear-cut chances without him.Â

Tottenham have also missed James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski this season; both are recovering from long-term injuries.Â

Frank, who is under great pressure following a series of poor performances in the Premier League, especially at home, hopes to get back Mohammed Kudus and captain Cristian Romero in the north London derby.Â