Mikel Arteta Suggests Everton Could Hold an Advantage Ahead of Arsenal Clash
Everton Must Set Takeover Buzz Aside as They Head to Arsenal on Saturday Afternoon
Sean Dyche’s Everton head into their clash with Arsenal holding a five-point cushion above the relegation zone, despite having missed last weekend’s fixtures.
The Merseyside Derby was postponed due to Storm Darragh, leaving the Toffees with extra time to prepare for their trip to north London.
While Goodison Park hasn’t seen any action recently, off-pitch developments have kept fans talking, particularly with The Friedkin Group gaining Premier League approval for their Everton takeover.
Saturday 14th December
Premier League
Arsenal vs. Everton
Kick-off: 16:00
Everton’s season has offered fans few highlights, but their last match—a standout performance against Wolves—was a significant boost. Scoring four goals from set pieces, they showcased their best display of the campaign.
Mikel Arteta, whose Arsenal side currently sits third in the Premier League, acknowledged that Everton’s extra rest might give them an edge.
Speaking during his press conference, Arteta noted:
“That’s the context. We’re so used to playing every three days.
The boys trained today really fired up and looking forward to the game, understanding that it’s always a really tough opponent, and we’re going to have to be really good to beat them.”
Arteta has a personal connection to Everton, having made 209 appearances for the club during his playing career—more than at any other club.
On Friday morning, he also reacted to news of Everton’s takeover, which could signal a new chapter for the Toffees.
In preparation for the Arsenal game, Dyche gave minutes to some of his players during a behind-the-scenes friendly against Mansfield Town.
With no fresh injury concerns and momentum from the Wolves performance, Dyche is likely to stick with the same lineup.
Predicted Everton XI vs Arsenal:
Pickford; Young, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko; Gueye, Mangala; Ndiaye, Doucoure, McNeil; Calvert-Lewin.
Despite Arsenal’s busy schedule, including Premier League and Champions League fixtures, they remain formidable at home.
However, Everton’s improved form and added rest could make this encounter more competitive than the table suggests.
