Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are set to make history today as they face off in the first ever North London Derby to be played outside the United Kingdom.
The highly anticipated clash will serve as the final match of Arsenal’s Asia Tour, and manager Mikel Arteta thinks that this fixture is a brilliant idea, as supporters seek to catch a first glimpse of their new striker Viktor Gyokeres on the field.
The challenges and intensity of the pre-season schedule are building valuable momentum as clubs gear up for the 2025/26 campaign. A tough 3-2 triumph over Newcastle United who have been feisty opponents in the recent past was Gunners last outing.
While both teams have enjoyed passionate support throughout their pre-season, some devoted fans remain conflicted about seeing such a historic and fiercely contested derby being played overseas.
Speaking ahead of the showdown as seen on Arsenal official website, Mikel Arteta praised the bold decision to bring such a historic rivalry to an international stage.
He said:
“Well, a great idea. I think to bring football tradition, a rivalry, but at the same time to do it in a completely different country, I think it’s brilliant.
“I think it’s an opportunity for everybody to feel that and for us as well, because for our preparation, increases the competition level again and it brings a different challenge to the game and then we’re going to be so lucky to play in this incredible stadium with 50,000 people that I’m sure they’re going to be super loud and passionate.”
On facing a fierce rival in pre-season, Arteta added:
“I love it, and I think we all do. I think we’re all excited, you know, to play in front of so many supporters, and as Mikel said here, we really felt that love and the connection here.
“It’s been a while since we’ve played this type of game, so I think that’s what we all want.
“For me it’s a good thing that we get a proper test and something that means a little bit more, you know, with the derby. So, I think we’re all just really excited and eager to play.”
The two Premier League clubs are two sides in completely different scenarios. One is settled and is continuing to add to their already strong squad, while the other is embarking on another new project with a head coach that will demand more new signings. The game will be entertaining to watch.
Arsenal are an almost complete item, while Spurs are still a work in progress. The match will be played in front of 50,000 fans at the Kai Tak Sports Park, adding an extra level of occasion to what is already a high-pressure fixture.
