Head-to-head history
Despite back-to-back losses, Arsenal will be licking their chops heading into this clash. The North Londoners are unbeaten in their last five meetings with Chelsea, winning four times. In fact, the Blues have just one win in their previous 10 matches against Arsenal.
Can Chelsea break the skid vs Arsenal?
As previously mentioned, Chelsea does not play well versus the Gunners. However, they’re having an impressive campaign overall, and it truly looks like they could finish in the top four this term. Enzo Maresca’s side has a 5-3-2 record and has scored 20 goals in 10 matches while conceding just 12 times.
Cole Palmer continues to prove why he’s one of the best players in Europe, leading the line with seven goals and five assists. However, he may not be available for the London derby due to a knee issue. Nicolas Jackson is also putting away his chances at a much higher rate, netting six times and setting up another three. Bruno Fernandes put United ahead last weekend from the penalty spot in the second half but Moises Caicedo equalized just four minutes later to help the Blues salvage a point.
The Blues haven’t played as great on home soil, compiling a 2-2-1 record. Last October they welcomed Arsenal to Stamford Bridge and it ended in a hard-fought 2-2 draw. Their last game in front of the Chelsea supporters came on October 27 and it resulted in a 2-1 victory over Newcastle. With the Gunners in poor form, they will be hungry for a positive outcome. The hosts must bring their best. They have +175 odds at Sports Interaction.
Arsenal need a result
The Gunners aren’t having the greatest week. Newcastle pulled off the upset last Saturday thanks to an early Alexander Isak goal and Arsenal couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities, despite controlling 64% of the ball. They had 10 shots but just one hit the target. To make matters worse, they failed to score again in a loss to Inter mid-week and again, dominated possession.
Mikel Arteta’s men had 20 shots and four on goal, including a whopping 33 crosses. They were completely toothless in the final third, though. It’s a concerning spell right now for the Gunners, who have dropped three of their last six games across all competitions. Sunday is a clear opportunity to respond and get a much-needed three points.
Arsenal is level on points with Chelsea and could potentially move into third spot with a win, depending on how Nottingham Forest fares against Newcastle. Three of the last four visits to Stamford Bridge ended in victory for the North Londoners. That’s a positive sign ahead of such a crucial fixture. The visitors are a slim favorite at soccer betting sites.
