The pressure is off the charts for Arsenal as they prepare for Sunday’s crucial North London Derby at Tottenham Hotspur, but in the best possible way.
With their main title competitors collapsing on Saturday, the Gunners have a significant chance to put distance between themselves and the chasing pack.
Champion Liverpool was stunningly dismantled 3-0 by Nottingham Forest, and Manchester City failed to capitalize, losing 2-1 away to Newcastle.
This combination of dropped points gives Mikel Arteta’s side a clear mandate. Although Chelsea closed slightly with a 2-0 win at Burnley, Arteta will be stressing that a derby win is essential to maintain the top spot going into a demanding run of games.
Arsenal’s last match ended in frustration, with Sunderland’s Brian Brobbey netting a late equalizer. However, the unexpected slip-ups from City and Liverpool mean the title race landscape has shifted, presenting the perfect opportunity for Arsenal to finally forge a significant lead.
The challenge, however, is immense. This revamped Spurs side, guided by Thomas Frank, is formidable, especially away from home, where they are undefeated and have secured 13 out of a possible 15 points this term.Recent history is on Arsenal’s side.
The Gunners have dominated the fixture, winning five of the last six meetings since Spurs’ home victory in 2022.
A win on Sunday would make history, marking the first time in the Premier League era that Arsenal have secured four straight North London Derby victories.