Changing of the guard in North London

As the dust settles down after another busy campaign, North London’s football rivalry is more heated than ever. With Tottenham’s European success, Arsenal might well have become London’s most “Spursy” team.

 

After the disappointment of second place in 2024, Mikel Arteta brought in what seemed like a mixed bag of transfers. Riccardo Calafiori at the time was a heavily spoken about prospect on the Gunners’ books, however, after signing for thirty-five million pounds and with the emerging talent of Myles Lewis-Skelly, the Italian found himself second choice for the majority of the season.

 

After a turbulent period between the sticks , they made David Raya a permanent signing from Brentford, whilst strengthening the club’s midfield with Spaniard Mikel Merino. Loan signings included Raheem Sterling from Chelsea and Bournemouth’s Neto as a goalkeeping backup.

 

Most deemed Arsenal’s season as another failure. No trophies and more money spent. Finishing second for another consecutive year has shifted some of the reds fanbase to calling for Arteta’s head. Next season is already looking like a pressured campaign before a ball has been kicked.

 

Despite critics calling Tottenham “Spursy,” Ange delivered his promise of winning things in his second year. A major trophy and European glory. So, is it time that Spurs hand over their “Spursy” ways and hand the baton to Arteta’s men?

Two years of Ange, one European trophy. Five seasons of Arteta, no European triumph.

 

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