Arsenal look to silence title doubts as Igor Tudor begins Spurs rescue mission
Arsenal travel across north London this weekend to face Tottenham Hotspur, determined to respond immediately after their damaging 2-2 draw with Wolves.
Mikel Arteta’s side squandered a two-goal lead at Molineux, dropping points that tightened the title race and reignited familiar questions about their staying power.
With Manchester City holding a game in hand, Arsenal know there is little room for further slips if they are to maintain control at the top.
The North London derby therefore arrives at a critical moment in their campaign.
Derbies rarely require added motivation, but the context of this fixture heightens the stakes even further.
Arsenal have been inconsistent away from home in recent weeks, winning neither of their last two league matches on rival territory, despite leading both games at different points.
Game management has been an issue, particularly when protecting leads, and it cost them again against Wolves.
Arteta will demand sharper concentration and greater authority in the closing stages if they are to avoid another setback.
Tottenham approach the contest in turbulent circumstances.
Igor Tudor takes charge of his first league game after replacing Thomas Frank, inheriting a side mired in poor form.
Spurs are winless in eight Premier League matches and have drifted uncomfortably close to the relegation picture.
A managerial change can often spark renewed energy, especially in a derby setting.
Tudor’s reputation for instilling discipline and intensity means Arsenal cannot afford complacency despite Tottenham’s struggles.
Spurs’ home record has been underwhelming this season, yet the emotional edge of this fixture could level the psychological playing field.
Arsenal, however, have dominated recent meetings and will draw confidence from that trend.
They are unbeaten in their last seven league encounters with Tottenham and have handled previous visits to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium with composure.
Bukayo Saka’s return to form and the continued influence of Declan Rice will be central to Arsenal’s approach.
The challenge is not merely about quality but about consistency and resilience.
If Arsenal produce their best level, they possess the structure and firepower to secure three points.
Anything less would invite renewed pressure in a title race already tightening.
A derby victory would steady nerves and reaffirm intent.
Another stumble would shift momentum in a season that demands precision at every turn.
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