The North London derby returns to the Emirates this Saturday as Arsenal host Fulham in a crucial Premier League clash—one that could have major implications at the top of the table.
Arsenal are riding high after a gritty 1-0 win over Newcastle last time out in the league, a result that snapped a two-game losing streak and sent them back to the summit, three points clear of Manchester City. With City not playing until Monday against Everton, Mikel Arteta's men have a golden opportunity to stretch their lead to six points and pile on the pressure.
The Gunners come into this London derby on the back of a midweek Champions League semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid, which ended in a 1-1 draw. Viktor Gyokeres opened the scoring from the penalty spot just before halftime, but Julian Alvarez leveled early in the second half, also from the spot. A late penalty shout for Atletico was overturned after a VAR review, leaving the tie finely balanced.
History is firmly on Arsenal's side in this fixture. They have never lost at home to Fulham in 32 league meetings—the longest unbeaten home run by one club against another in English Football League history. That includes a tight 1-0 win in the reverse fixture back in October, and the Gunners will be looking to complete the league double over their West London rivals.
Fulham, meanwhile, are hoping to build some momentum after a much-needed 1-0 victory over Aston Villa last weekend. Ryan Sessegnon's first-half strike ended a frustrating goal drought for Marco Silva's side, who had drawn blanks in four of their previous six league matches. Interestingly, they have won both games in which they have scored during that stretch—beating Burnley 3-1 and Villa 1-0.
But the Cottagers face an uphill battle at the Emirates. They have won just one of their last 15 Premier League meetings with Arsenal—a 2-1 home victory in December 2023—and will need to be at their very best to upset the hosts.
Team news could be a factor. Kai Havertz is a doubt after being forced off with a muscular injury in the Newcastle win, while Jurrien Timber and Mikel Merino are definitely out. On a brighter note, Riccardo Calafiori was an unused substitute in midweek and could be in line for minutes this weekend.
With the title race heating up and a historic home record on the line, this London derby promises plenty of drama. Will Arsenal take full advantage of City's weekend off, or can Fulham spring a surprise? All eyes will be on the Emirates on Saturday.