North London Derby Live: Arteta’s Gyokeres Decision and Frank’s New Signing Start in Arsenal vs Tottenham Clash

Arsenal vs Tottenham: Pre-Season Friendly Preview
By Tum Balogun | Updated: 12:00 BST, 31 July 2025

Kai Tak Sports Park hosts the North London Derby in a pre-season showdown.

Arsenal and Tottenham renew their rivalry today in a high-profile pre-season friendly at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Sports Park. Both managers, Mikel Arteta and Thomas Frank, are using the match to fine-tune their squads ahead of the 2025/26 season, with key lineup decisions making headlines.

Arteta’s Gyokeres Gamble
Arteta has opted to start new signing Viktor Gyokeres, signaling confidence in the Swedish striker’s readiness despite his recent £75 million move from Sporting CP. The striker, who netted 41 goals last season, partners with Gabriel Jesus in a dynamic front line. Meanwhile, Thomas Partey returns to midfield alongside Declan Rice, offering a blend of defensive grit and creativity.

Tottenham’s Fresh Faces
Spurs boss Thomas Frank hands a debut to summer acquisition Lucas Beraldo, the Brazilian defender slotting into a back three. All eyes are also on James Maddison, who captains the side, and rising star Mikey Moore, tasked with energizing Tottenham’s attack.

Lucas Beraldo (center) prepares for his Tottenham debut.

Match Context
This clash marks the first meeting between the rivals since Arsenal’s 3-2 Premier League win in April. While pre-season results are secondary, both clubs are eager to build momentum. Arteta emphasized the importance of “testing our intensity in challenging conditions,” referencing Hong Kong’s humid climate.

Key Battles to Watch

• Gyokeres vs Beraldo: A test of Tottenham’s defensive reshuffle against Arsenal’s marquee striker.
• Saka vs Udogie: Bukayo Saka’s pace against Destiny Udogie’s tenacity on the flank.
• Midfield Control: Rice and Partey aim to dominate against Maddison and Yves Bissouma.

Predicted Lineups

• Arsenal: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Timber; Rice, Partey; Saka, Ødegaard, Martinelli; Gyokeres.
• Tottenham: Vicario; Romero, Beraldo, Van de Ven; Porro, Bissouma, Maddison, Udogie; Kulusevski, Son, Moore.

Live Updates
12:15 BST: Kickoff! Spurs in all-white, Arsenal in red. Moore immediately tests Raya with a curling effort.
23’: GOAL! Gyokeres nods in from a corner—Arsenal lead 1-0.
37’: Maddison equalizes with a low drive. 1-1.

With pride and preparation at stake, this friendly offers a thrilling glimpse into both teams’ ambitions. Follow Mail Sport for full-time analysis!

Stay tuned for post-match highlights and insights.