Arsenal - a storm is brewing ahead.
Returning after the international break, Arsenal will face numerous challenges.
According to the Premier League schedule, in the upcoming match, Mikel Arteta's team will have to travel to face their rivals Tottenham Hotspur, another team from North London. As is well known, the team nicknamed "The Spurs" is a fierce opponent of Arsenal.
In addition to having to play on the opponent's home ground, Bukayo Saka and his teammates also suffered losses in terms of personnel. Specifically, in the match against Tottenham Hotspur, coach Mikel Arteta will be without Declan Rice (suspended) and Martin Odegaard (injured).
It can be confidently stated that the absence of the aforementioned midfield duo will significantly impact Arsenal's strength, particularly in the midfield. While Declan Rice is the anchor just in front of the defense, Martin Odegaard is the "spark" of the attack, the "soul" of the team, wearing the captain's armband.
It is highly likely that manager Mikel Arteta will fill the void left by Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard with Thomas Partey, Jorginho, or Leandro Trossard. Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou will certainly make full use of these "filler" players.
Having to play away from home against a powerful and highly determined opponent like Tottenham Hotspur, the risk of dropping points for the team nicknamed The Gunners is not insignificant. If they cannot resolve their existing problems, coach Mikel Arteta's team will find it difficult to leave with any points in hand.
Don't forget that right after the "North London derby" against Tottenham Hotspur, Bukayo Saka and his teammates will have to travel to the Etihad Stadium to face the reigning champions, Man City. Clearly, a challenging and arduous journey lies ahead for Mikel Arteta's team.
