At Emirates Stadium in London, the match that concluded last season will take place again this Saturday: Arsenal vs Everton. Back then, the Gunners still had a mathematical chance (later unrealized) to win the title, while the Toffees had already secured their survival and were far from any European ambition. Today, in December, the scenario remains nearly identical for Everton (slightly underwhelming in 15th place) and slightly more challenging for Arsenal, who are at the top of the table but distant from league leaders Liverpool. Everton will try to halt a strong-moving train, while Arsenal must ensure they keep pushing forward to close the gap at the summit.

Arsenal’s Form and Key Statistics

Arsenal has moved past their rough patch of performances and results, and in recent games, they’ve returned to their high standards.

An average of 3.2 goals scored and only 0.8 conceded in the last five matches is reassuring. Their recent 3-0 win in the Champions League against Monaco, led by key players Saka and Havertz, has secured a strong step towards the top eight. However, the Premier League remains the primary concern for the Gunners. The recent draw against Fulham has highlighted some shortcomings compared to last year, where Arsenal boasted seven more points at this stage.

Looking ahead to the match against Everton, optimism in North London remains high. Arsenal’s home form in their last nine games has been stellar, with eight victories, showcasing the potential of Arteta’s team on home turf.

Everton’s Form and Key Statistics

The 15th position in the Premier League is far below Everton’s potential and history. However, their recent emphatic 4-0 victory against Wolves has dispelled any immediate crisis concerns.

That said, consistency remains an issue. With just three wins in the league so far, the outlook is far from encouraging. On the road, Everton has only managed one victory, against newly promoted Ipswich, highlighting the need for improvement.

Despite scoring four goals in their last match against Wolverhampton, Everton’s goal balance remains negative. On average, they score one goal per game but concede 1.5, a trend they must address.

Match Prediction and Tactical Overview

Given Arsenal’s current form, Everton’s chances appear slim, even though the Gunners are not as dominant as they were last season or the year before.

With their key offensive players performing at their peak and their excellent home record at Emirates Stadium, Arsenal enters as the clear favorite. Everton, by contrast, has shown very little away from home this season.

• BetMines algorithm prediction for Arsenal vs Everton:
  • Home win (1): 79%
  • Draw (X): 14%
  • Away win (2): 7%

Probable Lineups for Arsenal vs Everton

Arsenal (4-2-3-1): Raya; Thomas Partey, Saliba, Kiwior, Timber; Rice, Merino; Saka, Odegaard, Trossard, Havertz. Coach: Arteta.

Everton (4-2-3-1): Pickford; Young, Tarkowski, Brantwhaite, Mykolenko; Mangala, Gueye; Ndiaye, Doucoure, McNeil; Calvert-Lewin. Coach: Dyche.