Arsenal’s trip to face Tottenham Hotspur tomorrow is a monumental one, as it will play a huge part in their Premier League title chances.
Mikel Arteta’s side will travel across North London to face their bitter rivals, but there is extra edge on this derby as Arsenal are hoping for a win to keep them in the Premier League title race.
Manchester City are currently one point behind, having played one game less, and Arsenal may need to win all four of their remaining games to give them a shot at the title.
In what will be a high pressure game against an attacking side, Gary Neville has urged Arsenal to not get carried away by the occasion.
Gary Neville urges Arsenal to stick to principles against Spurs
Speaking to Sky Sports, the former Manchester United defender highlighted Liverpool’s defeat to Everton as a warning for Arsenal to not let the derby atmosphere tempt them to deviate from their usual game.
“It’s going to potentially be like a bloodbath in the first 15 to 20 minutes. The Tottenham fans don’t want Arsenal to win the league,” he stated.
“Tottenham will want a win, not just for stopping Arsenal, but for pride, winning a north London derby and getting as many points as they can. They are trying to push Aston Villa for that fourth place.
“It’s a huge game and Liverpool’s defeat at Everton is a lesson for Arsenal. It’s not quite the same with Spurs a different side to Everton, but the elements of making sure they are ready, making sure they don’t get caught out, making sure that away from home you respect the opposition and the crowd, and what you could be up against if they get on top of you.
“The principles of playing away from home – Arsenal cannot forget that because they are a better football team and in a better moment.”
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Arsenal need to continue away day defensive solidity
Arsenal have conceded just one goal on the road in 2024, which came at Nottingham Forest in January.
William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes have been outstanding at the back in this time, and having a solid base has allowed Arsenal to rack up big wins on the road, with 6-0 victories coming at Sheffield United and West Ham.
With Spurs likely to play on the front foot, Arsenal will need to maintain their defensive strengths, and need to take their chances when presented with them. What they must not do, is get carried away by the occasion and let their defensive principles slip.