Arsenal will face Fulham in a highly anticipated London derby this Sunday, with both teams riding the wave of midweek victories. Fulham’s resurgence under Marco Silva and Arsenal’s relentless pursuit of Premier League glory set the stage for an engaging clash at Craven Cottage.
Arsenal enters this match following a 2-0 victory over Manchester United. While their attacking flair was muted in the first half, their set-piece efficiency shone through. Jurrien Timber and William Saliba found the net from corners, highlighting Arsenal’s reliance on dead-ball situations under set-piece coach Nicolas Jover. The Gunners have now won four consecutive games across all competitions, narrowing the gap to league leaders Liverpool to seven points.
Despite their form, Arsenal slipped to third in the Premier League table after Chelsea’s emphatic win over Southampton. However, they have excelled in London derbies, winning seven of their last eight encounters against capital clubs. Their attacking potency in away games has been particularly remarkable, having scored five or more goals in five road matches in 2024. A sixth such performance would set a new record in English football. However, Arsenal’s last visit to Craven Cottage ended in disappointment, as they suffered a 2-1 loss on New Year’s Eve 2023, a result that dented their title aspirations.
Fulham, meanwhile, is enjoying a strong campaign. The Cottagers secured a 3-1 victory over Brighton in their previous outing, with Alex Iwobi delivering a standout performance. The former Arsenal man scored twice, reinforcing Fulham’s European ambitions. Currently sixth in the Premier League standings, Fulham is just a point behind Brighton and within striking distance of the Champions League places. Silva’s men have been consistent scorers, netting in each of their last 15 matches across all competitions. However, defensive frailties remain a concern, as they are yet to register a clean sheet at home this season.
Fulham’s form in London derbies has been equally impressive. They are unbeaten in their last eight such fixtures, a streak they will aim to extend against Arsenal. Their success has been driven by a mix of Hale End graduates and shrewd acquisitions. Iwobi, along with other former Arsenal players, has brought creativity and dynamism to Fulham’s attacking play, while the likes of João Palhinha have solidified their midfield.
Sunday’s matchup will see Arsenal’s high-pressing game pitted against Fulham’s resilience and attacking flair. Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka, and Martin Ødegaard will be pivotal in breaking down Fulham’s defense. Meanwhile, Fulham’s forward line, led by Iwobi and Raul Jiménez, will look to exploit Arsenal’s occasional vulnerability on the counterattack.
The game also carries personal significance for several players, with Fulham’s squad featuring multiple ex-Arsenal players who will be keen to make a statement against their former club. Iwobi, in particular, has been in scintillating form and could be a decisive figure.
Arsenal will aim to capitalize on their momentum and reassert themselves in the title race. However, Fulham’s home record and recent form make them formidable opponents. The tactical battle between Mikel Arteta and Marco Silva promises to be an intriguing subplot, with both managers known for their strategic acumen.
As the Gunners seek to avenge last season’s defeat at Craven Cottage, the stakes are high for both teams. Arsenal’s title ambitions and Fulham’s European aspirations ensure that this London derby will be more than just a local rivalry; it could significantly shape the trajectories of both clubs as the season unfolds.
