After clinching a convincing 4-0 victory against PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League group stage, Arsenal's morale is at an all-time high as they prepare for a pivotal clash against city rivals Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's manager, emphasised that such a high-stakes game doesn't need any additional inspiration, with the North London derby being motivation enough.
The Gunners have set a brisk pace at the start of the season, gathering an impressive 13 points from just five Premier League matches. This momentum was further solidified with their recent foray into the Champions League. On the other side, Spurs, under the guidance of their new head coach Ange Postecoglou, have experienced their finest commencement to a top-tier season in over half a century. They too sit comfortably with 13 points after a streak of four back-to-back wins.
"Winning always helps and maintains the spirit. This game doesn't need any motivation, it's the most special game of the season," Arteta told reporters on Friday.
"It's a derby and a special moment for all of us. We just need to focus on that. They have a new manager who has done really, really well and he's changed the vibe around the club. They have a different style too so we have to be ourselves and do our best to beat them," he added.
However, all eyes will be on Arsenal's winger, Gabriel Martinelli, whose participation in the upcoming derby remains a question mark. Arteta confirmed that Martinelli, who sustained a hamstring strain in the match against Everton, is currently under assessment. His absence in the PSV game was noticeable, and fans are eager to see if he'll make a return against Tottenham.
The midfield will miss the presence of Thomas Partey, who's sidelined due to a groin injury. Yet, there might be a glimmer of hope for Arsenal's goalkeeper, Aaron Ramsdale. Having been the preferred choice at the start of the season, Ramsdale was notably absent in the last two fixtures against Everton and PSV Eindhoven.
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