Arsenal have a chance to extend their Premier League lead to six points but must win a fierce North London Derby against bitter rivals Tottenham.
The Premier League weekend is highlighted by the fierce North London Derby, as league leaders Arsenal host local rivals Tottenham Hotspur at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.
Arsenal's place at the top of the table is safe for another week, but manager Mikel Arteta knows a victory over Spurs would be a significant statement after fellow title rivals Liverpool and Manchester City lost on Saturday.
Beyond securing local bragging rights, a win would solidify their credentials as serious title contenders.
Match Preview
Before the international break, the Gunners showed a rare moment of vulnerability, conceding a late goal in a thrilling 2-2 draw with Sunderland that slightly narrowed their lead. However, the Gunners can move six point clear of second-placed Chelsea with a win on Sunday.
History is firmly on Arsenal's side in this fixture. They haven't lost to Spurs at home in the league since 2010 and have won five of the last six North London derbies, drawing the other.
However, they will face a Tottenham side that has become more defensively robust under Thomas Frank, a stark contrast to the porous backline seen under former manager Ange Postecoglou. While still inconsistent, Spurs boast the best away record in the Premier League and are the only team yet to lose on the road this season.
Despite this, Tottenham's dreadful record at the Emirates means their supporters are likely approaching Sunday's clash with caution, and a draw would probably be seen as a positive result.
Team News
Arsenal's injury concerns deepened during the international break, with star centre-back Gabriel sidelined with a thigh injury picked up while on duty with Brazil. His absence means Cristhian Mosquera is expected to make his North London Derby debut.
Left-back Riccardo Calafiori is also a minor doubt with a hip issue, but the Italian international is anticipated to be fit to start. The Gunners are also monitoring Noni Madueke, Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Martin Odegaard, with Arteta suggesting some could play a role against Spurs.
For Tottenham, the international break provided a timely boost, allowing several players to return to fitness. Crucially, Mohammed Kudus is available after missing the draw against Manchester United.
He is joined by Archie Gray, Lucas Bergvall, Kota Takai, Ben Davies, and even the long-term absentee Radu Dragușin. Pape Sarr and Randal Kolo Muani are also fit for selection.
Spurs are not without their own injury problems, however. Key creative players Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison remain unavailable, as does their leading striker, Dominic Solanke.
Time and Where to Watch
The match kicks off at 7.30pm Kenyan time and will be broadcast live on SuperSport TV.
Arsenal vs Tottenham Predicted Lineups
Arsenal Predicted XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Mosquera, Calafiori; Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Eze, Trossard; Merino.
Tottenham Predicted XI: Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence; Palhinha, Bentancur; Kudus, Sarr, Odobert; Richarlison.