Gunners can claim dignity at the Bridge
This London derby comes at a bad time for one of the form sides in Europe in Thomas Tuchel’s Chelsea. The FA Cup final takes place this weekend, and with the Blues now sat comfortably in the top four thanks to victory over the league leaders Manchester City last time out, the three remaining Premier League fixtures are most important for them to not pick up any injuries to key players. Arsenal, despite their disappointing Europa League exit last week, have picked up considerably since the turn of the year, and with their youthful core will not fear the proposition of Chelsea. The smart money is with the Gunners in my opinion.
Process
Tuchel’s impact on the Blues’ backline has been astonishing, their defensive numbers rival that of imperious City’s since his arrival, the German has made inconsistent centre backs like Andreas Christensen and Kurt Zouma into assured rearguard monsters. They rank second for defensive process and third in attack, they will be keen to put together a title bid next season.
Arsenal too has been solid in front of their own goal with Rob Holding really growing into the centre back berth in every match. Bernd Leno is certainly one of the better goalkeepers in the division, there is a diligent core for Mikel Arteta, or whoever will be in the dugout next term, to build from. They rank 11th for expected goals for, going forward has been what has let them down this season, the first in a Gunners shirt to which Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has flattered to deceive.
Goals?
Has to be an unders play, it has been a theme of big six meetings this season and Chelsea have only seen three goals or more in two of their last ten outings. A point would suit both sides.
- Chelsea have scored in eight of ten.
- Chelsea have conceded in four of ten.
- Chelsea have seen both teams score in three of ten.
- Chelsea have seen over 2.5 goals in two of ten.
- Arsenal have scored in seven of ten.
- Arsenal have conceded in six of ten.
- Arsenal have seen both teams score in four of ten.
- Arsenal have seen over 2.5 goals in five of ten.
This match presents a great opportunity for Arsenal to get some bragging rights and for Arteta to fight off the pressure surrounding his position. Chelsea have bigger things in the crosshairs.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
A comfortable win, 1-0 Arsenal.