As the highly anticipated North London derby approaches, Arsenal once again find themselves navigating the unpredictable terrain of injuries and squad adjustments. This time, the concern centers around Gabriel Magalhães, who suffered a knock during Brazil’s most recent international fixture. His absence would be a significant blow, given his consistency, aerial dominance, and leadership at the back. Yet despite the setback, Mikel Arteta still has multiple defensive options who can rise to the occasion—and perhaps even reshape the team in a positive way heading into the clash with Tottenham.
The first names on the list of possible solutions are Andrés Mosquera and Piero Hincapié, two defenders whose profiles bring different strengths to Arsenal’s back line. Mosquera, known for his physicality and composed ball-playing ability, is capable of slotting into the left-sided centre-back role with minimal disruption. His ability to defend aggressively in duels and maintain line integrity makes him a strong candidate to partner William Saliba if Gabriel is ruled out. Meanwhile, Hincapié brings superb left-footed balance, elite recovery pace, and comfort operating both centrally and in wider defensive spaces—qualities that might be especially valuable against Tottenham’s quick transitional attacks.
However, the most intriguing option could be Riccardo Calafiori, who has recently returned to training and is reportedly feeling confident, sharp, and eager to contribute. The Italian defender, who impressed during preseason and early training sessions before his setback, offers a blend of tactical maturity, forward-driving passing, and positional versatility. Calafiori can play at centre-back, left-back, or even step into midfield in the hybrid role that Arteta has often asked from his defenders. If he is fit enough for selection, he could become the surprise solution that stabilizes the defensive line without forcing major tactical adjustments.
Beyond the centre-back puzzle, the rest of Arsenal’s potential lineup is expected to follow familiar patterns, though Arteta may tweak certain roles to counter Tottenham’s strengths. In midfield, Declan Rice will anchor the team with his usual blend of control, anticipation, and powerful progression. His ability to shield the makeshift defensive pairing—whatever form it takes—will be crucial, especially when Spurs attempt to overload between the lines.
Martin Ødegaard will once again be responsible for orchestrating the attack, connecting play, and exploiting spaces Tottenham tend to leave when their full-backs advance. Alongside him, players like Kai Havertz or Emile Smith Rowe could feature, depending on the balance Arteta wants between creativity and physical presence.
On the wings, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli remain locked in as starters, providing the speed, directness, and unpredictability Arsenal will need to break down their rivals. Up front, Gabriel Jesus is expected to lead the line, offering his relentless pressing and link-up play—qualities that could force Tottenham’s back line into uncomfortable situations.
Ultimately, while Gabriel’s injury is far from ideal, Arsenal are not short of reliable replacements. With Mosquera, Hincapié, and a re-energized Calafiori all available, the Gunners still have the tools to field a competitive defensive unit capable of handling the derby’s intensity. If Arteta makes the right calls, Arsenal can step into the Tottenham match with confidence, resilience, and a lineup ready to shine despite the setbacks.
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