The Athletic FC Podcast The Preview: Spurs vs Arsenal
Feb 20, 2026
Dan Kilpatrick, football reporter and analyst who breaks down Spurs' crisis and Tudor's challenge. Art de Roché, Arsenal correspondent offering tactical reads on Saka, Odegaard and Martinelli. They debate Tottenham's injuries, selection dilemmas and pragmatic tactics. They also examine Arsenal's worrying form, tempo questions and how both teams might approach the North London clash.
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Pressure vs. Mentality: A Nuanced View
- Pressure is a factor but 'mentality' alone is an oversimplification for Arsenal's wobble.
- Arteta's side still need experience of winning to convert close runs into titles.
Saka As A No.10 Works, But Options Remain
- Bukayo Saka playing in the 10 role offers a different profile and has worked well recently.
- Arteta may experiment but is likely to prefer trusted attacking combinations against Tottenham.
Key Uncertainties In Spurs' Attack
- Tottenham's available attacking options are thin and uncertain, with Columoni a big question.
- Palhinha's role could be variable, affecting whether Spurs use a back three or four.