Arsenal head into Sunday’s highly anticipated Premier League showdown against Tottenham Hotspur knowing the stakes have just risen dramatically—thanks to a dramatic shake-up among their title rivals on Saturday.

In a shock result, reigning champions Liverpool were dismantled 3–0 at Anfield by struggling Nottingham Forest, while Manchester City failed to close the gap, falling 2–1 away to Newcastle. Chelsea, however, kept pressure alive with a routine 2–0 win at Burnley, moving within six points of the Gunners.

The message for Mikel Arteta’s men is simple—win, and take control of the title race.

Arsenal were denied victory last weekend after Brian Brobbey’s late equalizer for Sunderland, but with both City and Liverpool dropping points, momentum has swung back in their favour.

Arteta is expected to emphasize composure, ruthlessness, and emotional control as his side prepare for one of the fiercest derbies in world football.

But Tottenham won’t arrive at the Emirates as underdogs. Thomas Frank’s rejuvenated Spurs remain unbeaten away from home, collecting an impressive 13 points from 15 available on the road. Defensively solid, tactically disciplined, and increasingly fearless, they pose a genuine threat.

Historically, though, North London has tilted red in recent years—since Spurs’ home win in 2022, Arsenal have won five of the last six derbies, and could make it four consecutive Premier League NLD victories for the first time ever.

Opinion: A Defining Moment in Arsenal’s Season

If there was ever a perfect moment for Arsenal to announce their seriousness, it’s now. Title rivals have stumbled, fixtures are about to pile up, and confidence in the squad remains high.

This match isn’t just about bragging rights—it’s a psychological checkpoint. Beat Spurs, and Arsenal create separation at the top. Drop points, and the narrative shifts back to uncertainty and vulnerability.

Tottenham’s away form makes them dangerous, but a title-winning team embraces pressure, not fears it. The Gunners must show maturity—control the midfield, stay sharp defensively, and bury chances early.

Fans have seen this story before—Arsenal fly, then hesitate. But this version of Arteta’s team feels different: tougher, smarter, more united.

A win today wouldn’t seal the title—but it could be the moment everyone starts believing Arsenal truly belong there.