Arsenal vs Tottenham: The stats and styles behind the rivals' impressive Premier League starts
The key numbers ahead of the north London derby, including the fine form of Martin Odegaard and James Maddison; watch Arsenal vs Tottenham on Super Sunday, live on Sky Sports from 1pm; Kick-off 2pm
By Marc Harrington, Football Statistician
Thursday 21 September 2023 17:50, UK
The first north London derby of the season takes place at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, live on Sky Sports, and with both teams currently sitting in the top four it's one of the most highly anticipated meetings between the rivals in recent years.
Both Arsenal and Tottenham are still unbeaten in this season's Premier League and, under new manager Ange Postecoglou, Spurs look as if they may challenge for a top four finish and maybe even the title.
Arsenal are also in high spirts after a much-improved season under Mikel Arteta last time around which resulted in a return to the Champions League for the first time in six years and a title tussle with Manchester City.
When comparing both teams this season, it's easy to see why they are among the early front runners.
Both like to dominate possession and play high up the pitch in the opposition's third. However, there are differences.
Tottenham prefer to heavily press their opponents and only Manchester United have more high turnovers in the Premier League this season. Also, only Everton and Bournemouth have made more pressures in the final third than Tottenham, in comparison Arsenal have only made the 10th most.
The reason for Arsenal's slightly lower pressing statistics is their tendency to dominate possession. The Gunners have had 30 build up attacks (a sequence of 10 passes or more that ends in a shot or touch in the box) so far this season, a total only bettered by Manchester City.
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