Combined North London XI: Spurs dominate defence, Havertz misses out

The next North London derby is on the horizon as Tottenham host Arsenal in one of the biggest clashes of the season. So, we figured now was the right time to look at both teams and work out a combined XI.

Who makes the combined XI?

Ahead of the meeting between Tottenham and Arenal on September 15, we’ve picked the best players from Ange Postecoglou and Mikel Arteta’s squads to create the ultimate lineup. Here’s who makes the side.

Guglielmo Vicario: This one was a really close call, as David Raya is a top goalkeeper, but Vicario just edges it thanks to his shot-stopping reactions and his slightly better distribution.

Pedro Porro: Ben White may be a decent right-back, but Pedro Porro is genuinely one of the best in the world in his position. He offers so much going forward, with brilliant crosses, supporting runs, and blistering shots.

Cristian Romero: He’s a World Cup and Copa America winner. He’s one of the best in the game at reading the pitch, carrying the ball, and playing progressive passes. Plus, he’s near impossible to dribble past. Romero’s place in this team was never in doubt.

William Saliba: The Frenchman continues to improve year on year, and is now one of the top centre-backs in the Premier League. He possesses fantastic composure on the ball, and shows great positional discipline.

Destiny Udogie: Admittedly, Arsenal don’t have much to offer in this department, so Udogie’s place is secure. The young Italian is brilliant going forward, and generally pretty good in defensive areas, too.

Declan Rice: Arsenal are very strong in the middle of the park, and a big reason for that is Declan Rice. He’s the beating heart of Arteta’s team in many ways. He does the simple things really well, he protects his defence, and he helps the Gunners transition into attacks effectively, too.

Mikel Merino: We’re yet to see how Arsenal’s new signing copes in the Premier League, but I’d wager he will be a huge success. He’s a classy midfielder who could transform the Gunners this year. A very smart signing indeed.

Martin Odegaard: Until James Maddison gets back to his best, sadly, the Arsenal captain has to be regarded as the best playmaker between both squads. His attacking returns might be deceptively low, but Odegaard brings flair, can open up the field for his teammates, and is incredibly dynamic.

Bukayo Saka: It’s crazy to think Saka is just 23-years-old, because he has been performing at such a high level for so long. He’s a game-changer; the kind of player that has the ability to create magic out of thin air, and you can always count on him to turn up with a goal or assist.

Dominic Solanke: Arsenal failed to sign a striker again this summer, and I think they’ll really regret that when it comes to the title race. Spurs did buy a new number 9, and though we’re yet to see the best from Solanke, he has the potential to take the Lilywhites to the next level.

Heung-min Son: A world-class player and a Tottenham legend, Sonny, much like Saka, can win football matches with moments of brilliance. His athleticism, finishing, and ball control are unmatched.

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