Get ready for a North London derby like no other! Tottenham Hotspur’s starting lineup against Arsenal has just been revealed, and it’s packed with surprises and strategic shifts that could redefine the game. Randal Kolo Muani takes center stage as the lead striker, stepping in for Dominic Solanke, who’s been sidelined due to illness. But here’s where it gets interesting: Solanke’s absence isn’t the only shake-up in the squad. Interim manager Tudor has made two bold changes following the team’s recent loss to Newcastle, with Joao Palhinha replacing Wilson Odobert in a move that could strengthen their midfield dominance.
And this is the part most people miss: recent loan signing James Wilson makes his first appearance on the bench, joining the likes of Richarlison, who’s finally back after a seven-game absence due to a hamstring injury. Tudor’s signature 3-4-2-1 formation is likely to feature Micky van de Ven, Radu Dragusin, and Palhinha in defense, thanks to Cristian Romero’s suspension and Kevin Danso’s ongoing injury. Pedro Porro’s continued absence means Djed Spence and Archie Gray will hold down the flanks, while Yves Bissouma, Pape Matar Sarr, Conor Gallagher, and Xavi Simons complete the midfield.
But here’s the controversial bit: Wilson Odobert’s season-ending anterior cruciate ligament injury has deepened Spurs’ injury crisis, joining a staggering list of sidelined stars including Maddison, Kulusevski, and Kudus. With Romero serving the second of his four-game suspension, questions are already swirling about Tottenham’s ability to hold their ground against a fierce Arsenal side. Is Tudor’s lineup bold enough to secure a win, or will injuries and suspensions prove too costly?
Tottenham’s confirmed XI: Vicario, Dragusin, Van de Ven, Palhinha, Gray, Bissouma, Sarr, Spence, Gallagher, Simons, Kolo Muani. Subs: Austin, Rowswell, Souza, Olusesi, Williams-Barnett, Tel, Richarlison, Solanke, Wilson. Injured list: Odobert, Maddison, Kulusevski, Kudus, Bentancur, Davies, Bergvall, Romero, Udogie, Richarlison, Porro.
Catch all the action at 4:30 PM GMT on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, live on Sky Sports. What do you think of Tudor’s lineup choices? Will Kolo Muani deliver, or is this a gamble too far? Let us know in the comments below!
