Early trends - Tottenham predicted starting XI for Arsenal derby

This Sunday, the North London derby between Tottenham and Arsenal will take place at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. With the match fast approaching, we can already start to outline some early predictions for the starting XI under the guidance of Ange Postecoglou.

There are a few clear uncertainties, such as Richarlison’s potential absence due to injury and Rodrigo Bentancur’s situation following recent charges related to comments about South Korean individuals. Considering these and other factors, here is our initial prediction for the starting lineup.

Early trends - Tottenham predicted starting XI for Arsenal derby

Predicted Tottenham lineup vs Arsenal: Vicario; Porro, Van de Ven, Romero, Udogie; Sarr, Bissouma, Maddison; Kulusevski, Solanke, Son.

Both Tottenham and Arsenal are under pressure to secure a win, even though it’s only the fourth game of the Premier League season. For Tottenham, this clash presents a crucial opportunity to claim three points against their arch-rivals and regain some momentum after a mixed start to the campaign.

Despite showing promise, the Lilywhites have only managed to secure four points from a possible nine, including a frustrating loss to Newcastle before the international break.

Arsenal come into the game with significant injury concerns. Declan Rice is ruled out, and the Gunners face an even bigger blow with the absence of captain Martin Odegaard, who is sidelined with an ankle injury. These absences could severely impact Arsenal’s midfield strength and overall game plan.

On Tottenham’s side, there’s optimism surrounding the return of record summer signing Dominic Solanke, who is expected to be fit for the derby after missing out before the international break. Manager Ange Postecoglou had rested Solanke to ensure he was ready for this pivotal match.

However, Postecoglou faces some tough decisions, particularly in midfield, where he must choose between the reliable Rodrigo Bentancur and the energetic Pape Sarr. In attack, the manager has to decide whether to start the electrifying Brennan Johnson or opt for the unpredictable Dejan Kulusevski.