Arsenal host Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, aiming to secure a fourth consecutive home league victory and respond to Manchester City’s Saturday win.
The Gunners have moved into the final stretch of the season at the top of the table, though their lead was cut to two points following City’s 1–0 win at Leeds yesterday. Manager Mikel Arteta oversaw a clinical 4–1 victory at Tottenham last weekend, and his side now looks to maintain their dominance in the capital. Notably, Arsenal have lost just one of their last 15 meetings with Chelsea in all competitions, including two victories in the League Cup semi-finals earlier this year.
Arsenal Team News
Mikel Arteta manages a squad nearing full health at a critical juncture, with no fresh concerns reported following the North London derby. Notably, Bukayo Saka has been passed fit despite a minor ankle twist late in the Spurs match. Consequently, the England international is expected to start on the wing. Viktor Gyökeres—who has scored eight goals in his last 12 games—will lead the attack. Notably, Eberechi Eze has been a derby specialist this season, with all six of his league goals for the club coming in London-based fixtures.
David Raya will start in goal behind a defensive line likely featuring William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães. In midfield, Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi will anchor the side, with Martin Ødegaard potentially returning to the XI after a cameo appearance last weekend. Leandro Trossard and Bukayo Saka will provide the width, supporting the in-form Gyökeres. Notably, Arsenal have conceded 44% of their goals this year following an error, a statistic they must improve against a clinical Chelsea frontline.
