The North London Derby Showdown: Arsenal vs Tottenham's Sensational Premier League Campaigns
Arsenal vs Tottenham: A closer look at the impressive Premier League starts by both rivals, highlighting the outstanding performances of Martin Odegaard and James Maddison Catch the thrilling north London derby live on Super Sunday, only on Sky Sports!
The much-anticipated first north London derby of the season will be held at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, with both teams currently in the top four. This clash between Arsenal and Tottenham, broadcasted live on We, has generated immense excitement among fans due to the unbeaten record of both teams in this season's Premier League. Under the guidance of their new manager Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham appears to be a strong contender for a top-four finish and possibly even the title.
Arsenal is in high spirits as well following an impressive season under Mikel Arteta, leading to their return to the Champions League after a six-year absence and a fierce competition for the title against Manchester City. When comparing both teams this season, it is evident why they are considered early frontrunners.
Both like to dominate possession and play high up the pitch in the opposition's third. However, there are differences.
Arsenal
Tottenham Hotspur
Sunday 24th September 1:00pm
Kick off 2:00pm
Tottenham demonstrates a strong inclination towards intense pressing tactics, with Manchester United being the sole team surpassing them in terms of high turnovers in the Premier League this season. Additionally, Tottenham has exerted more pressure in the final third than Everton and Bournemouth, whereas Arsenal ranks only 10th in the same regard.
Arsenal's possession dominance is the primary factor for their relatively lower pressing statistics. This season, the Gunners have executed 30 build-up attacks (defined as a sequence of 10 passes or more resulting in a shot or touch inside the box), which is surpassed only by Manchester City. On the other hand, Tottenham adopts a more diverse strategy, excelling in both build-up attacks and direct attacks, earning them a position within the top four teams in these categories.
Arsenal and Tottenham Premier League rankings this season
| Stats per game | Shots | Touches in opp. box | % touches in final 3rd | Possession | % passes into final 3rd | High turnovers | Build up attacks | Direct attacks | Pressures in final 3rd |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arsenal | 15.6 (PL rank 7th) | 37.4 (4th) | 32.3% (11st) | 66.3% (3rd) | 51.4% (1st) | 43 (6th) | 30 (2nd) | 5 (14th) | 298 (10th) |
| Tottenham | 20.2 (1st) | 43.4 (1st) | 31.3% (2nd) | 61.4% (5th) | 44.4% (3rd) | 56 (2nd) | 21 (4th) | 13 (4th) | 422 (3rd) |
This season, Postecoglou's aggressive and attacking style of football has breathed new life into the team. As Celtic manager, he has already clinched five major trophies in just two seasons, showcasing his high-pressure and possession-based game which has been highly admired. In contrast, under Antonio Conte, Tottenham has witnessed a significant shift in their playing style. They are now averaging more shots, touches in the opposition box, possession, high turnovers, and pressures in the final third. This departure marks a stark contrast from what had been perceived as Conte's negative tactics in previous years.
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Arsenal Tottenham Hotspur
A shining light in Postecoglou's Tottenham side this season is James Maddison.Maddison, who was signed for £40m this summer, has had a remarkable start to his tenure at Spurs. In fact, he was awarded the prestigious title of Premier League player of the month for August. On Sunday, the talented England international will have a decisive midfield showdown with Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard. This highly anticipated clash will undoubtedly determine which team lays claim to the coveted north London bragging rights.
Maddison leads Tottenham in assists and chances created this season, surpassing all other Premier League players in shot-creating actions. Odegaard, while not as imaginative as Maddison, remains Arsenal's top goal scorer in the Premier League. Furthermore, he has recorded the highest number of pressures in the final third (70) and turnovers caused by pressures (23) for the club.
With Maddison on top form, Tottenham fans will be dreaming of a first Premier League win at the Emirates since November 2010.
However, in a clash between two evenly-matched sides, whatever the outcome, it is sure to be a fascinating encounter.
Watch Arsenal vs Tottenham on Super Sunday, live on We from 1pm; Kick-off 2pm
