Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are set to make history on Thursday as they contest the first-ever North London Derby on foreign soil, with the two rivals clashing in a pre-season friendly in Hong Kong.
The Gunners enter the match with significant momentum and confidence, having already secured impressive victories against AC Milan (1-0) and fellow Premier League side Newcastle United (3-2) during their successful tour of Asia.
The main talking point for Arsenal fans is the potential for a highly anticipated debut for their blockbuster new signing, Viktor Gyökeres. While Kai Havertz is expected to start up front, the Swedish striker is likely to make his first appearance for the club from the bench.
Manager Mikel Arteta is expected to name a strong lineup for this historic derby. The team will be boosted by the return of star midfielders Declan Rice and captain Martin Ødegaard to the starting XI. They will likely be joined by the impressive new signing, Martín Zubimendi, forming a formidable midfield trio.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup (4-3-3): Raya; White, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Rice, Zubimendi, Ødegaard; Saka, Havertz, Martinelli.
Score Prediction While form often goes out the window in a derby, Arsenal come into this match looking sharper, more cohesive, and further along in their pre-season preparations. Tottenham are still adapting under their new management. With key players returning to the starting lineup and the potential emotional boost of a Gyökeres debut, the Gunners are the clear favourites to win this historic friendly.
Prediction: Arsenal 3–1 Tottenham Hotspur