Chelsea and Arsenal meet at Stamford Bridge in a clash between the Premier League’s second- and first-placed teams, with both sides entering the derby driven by their high-intensity pressing styles.
Chelsea committed to possession football
Regardless of the opponent, Chelsea remain loyal to a possession-oriented approach. Even in their Champions League match against Barcelona, Maresca’s setup was designed to facilitate build-up play - from the first pass out of defence, through the midfield press, and into the final third. The structure relies heavily on Chelsea’s interior midfielders, who take responsibility for progressing the ball under pressure. However, this time they face one of the most aggressive pressing teams in Europe, making their build-up far more challenging.
Arsenal in exceptional form
Arsenal have won 16 of their last 19 matches across all competitions, demonstrating both efficiency and consistency. Their defensive record is one of the strongest in the league, yet they have conceded in each of their last three games - a sign that even an elite structure can be tested when the tempo rises. The Gunners’ pressing intensity was evident in the matches against Bayern Munich and Tottenham, and it is exactly this weapon that can destabilise Chelsea’s attempts to play through the thirds.
Prediction: Over 2.5 goals
The tactical profiles of the two teams strongly suggest goals. Chelsea insist on playing short under pressure, while Arsenal actively seek to force mistakes high up the pitch - an ideal recipe for chances at both ends. Both teams have enough attacking quality to punish even the smallest slip, and recent matches confirm defensive vulnerabilities on both sides. With the high tempo, aggressive duels, and constant transitions expected, Over 2.5 goals emerges as the most logical and value-driven prediction for this London derby.
