As Arsenal prepare for the season's first north London derby, fresh insights have emerged from the Emirates dressing room that highlight the team's evolving dynamics.
The Gunners enter this crucial match against Tottenham Hotspur as Premier League leaders for six consecutive weeks, maintaining their four-point advantage over Manchester City despite a recent 2-2 draw at Sunderland.
However, Mikel Arteta faces significant challenges with defender Gabriel Magalhaes joining Noni Madueke, Viktor Gyokeres and Gabriel Martinelli on the injury list after suffering a setback while on international duty with Brazil.
Zubimendi's Surprising Goal-Scoring Impact
Summer signing Martin Zubimendi has revealed the remarkable difference in his game since joining Arsenal in a £51 million move from Real Sociedad.
The Spanish midfielder, who followed the same path as club and international teammate Mikel Merino, has already netted twice for the Gunners despite scoring just ten goals in 236 appearances for his former club.
Both of Zubimendi's goals came in Arsenal's 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest in September, surprising even the player himself.
"I wonder what they think at Real Sociedad because I had so many chances like that, but never scored from them, and the first one here goes in," Zubimendi admitted. "I'm happy to score so quickly as that gives you a confidence boost."
Merino praised his compatriot's qualities, stating: "He honestly brings a lot. They don't make signings here for no reason and whenever someone comes in, it's to add something to the team."
Rice's Growing Dressing Room Influence
Meanwhile, Declan Rice's leadership qualities continue to make a significant impact at the Emirates since his £105 million transfer from West Ham United.
The England international has become part of Arsenal's leadership group alongside captain Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Magalhaes and Mikel Merino.
Saka, who has frequently worn the armband in Odegaard's absence this season, highlighted Rice's authoritative presence in the dressing room.
"Dec is not only a great player but he's a great leader," Saka revealed. "Obviously he was captain at West Ham and even around Arsenal, he's a big leader. He's a guy that takes a lot of responsibility in the changing room and gets the boys going."
The winger added: "He speaks with authority. He communicates well, he knows what to say at the right moment. But I think he has that backed up with his presence on the pitch, how he plays. He plays every game, he's always available."
Title Credentials Face Stern Test
As Arsenal look to maintain their position at the Premier League summit, Sunday's derby represents another critical examination of their championship credentials.
The Gunners will be confident having completed the double over Tottenham last season, but face a Spurs side determined to disrupt their rivals' momentum.
With key players sidelined through injury, the leadership qualities of figures like Rice and the unexpected goal threat from Zubimendi could prove decisive in this high-stakes encounter.
