Neville: 'Tottenham will try to stop Arsenal from winning the title'

According to former defender Gary Neville, in addition to the goal of continuing to compete for the top 4 of the Premier League, Tottenham is determined to beat Arsenal to block their rivals in the championship race.

"It's going to be intense in the first 15 to 20 minutes," Neville told The Gary Neville podcast. "Tottenham fans don't want Arsenal to win the Premier League. I've been in London a lot and when I meet Tottenham fans they say they don't want Arsenal to win the league."

According to the former England defender, Tottenham want to win not only to stop Arsenal in the title race, but also for the pride of their home north London derby. Tottenham also want to put pressure on Aston Villa in the top four race. Before round 35, Tottenham were in fifth place with 60 points, two points behind Aston Villa but with two games in hand.

Tottenham defender Cristian Romero (center) blocks a shot from Arsenal defender Ben White (No. 4) during the Premier League London derby at Emirates Stadium on September 24, 2023. Photo: AFP — Tottenham defender Cristian Romero (center) blocks a shot from Arsenal defender Ben White (No. 4) during the Premier League London derby at Emirates Stadium on September 24, 2023. Photo: *AFP*

In the 2021-2022 season, Arsenal lost 0-3 when visiting Tottenham and let the same city club take the Champions League spot. Neville believes that Arsenal have matured significantly since then, but still uses Liverpool's loss at Everton in midweek as a warning to the top team.

"Two years ago, it was a Champions League tie and Tottenham beat Arsenal," Neville said. "Arsenal couldn't cope with the pressure, but next time it's a different Arsenal. They're strong and resilient now, but it's a big test, like Liverpool going to Everton. That night it was a bit too much and Liverpool were shocked at Goodison Park. Arsenal can't afford to be in the same situation."

According to Neville, Arsenal dominated when they beat Chelsea 5-0 and must continue to overcome Tottenham if they want to win the championship. Before round 35, the "Gunners" led the Premier League with 77 points, one point ahead of Man City but having played one more match. "The match against Tottenham is the most important moment of the season for Arsenal," Neville commented. "The North London derby is my favorite match for many years, and the favorite match I have commented on for Sky in 11 years of working. This match is always full of emotion."

Paul Merson, a former midfielder who played for Arsenal from 1985 to 1997, also stressed the importance of the north London derby on April 28, but is confident his former club will take all three points. "Tottenham will play total football, where they will finish and then let the opposition attack dangerously," he commented. "That won't work because Arsenal have better players, are a stronger and more united team. I believe Arsenal will win, seeing how Tottenham play."

According to Merson, not only Arsenal, but Tottenham are also under a lot of pressure because of the race for a Champions League ticket. "Tottenham will be knighted if they beat Arsenal. But not only that, they also need to get into the top 4," said the 56-year-old legend. "This is a match where Tottenham also have to perform well. Honestly, a draw will most likely be enough to stop Arsenal from winning the title, but it will not be enough to help Tottenham in the race for the top 4."

Hong Duy

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