The stage is set for a thrilling North London derby, but will Igor Tudor's tactics be enough to overcome Arsenal's challenge? The new Tottenham interim head coach has a tough task ahead as he takes on the Gunners in his Premier League debut.
Igor Tudor's first test as Tottenham's interim boss couldn't be more intense, facing Arsenal in the North London derby on Sunday. With the team's recent struggles, Tudor aims to turn their fortunes around, just as he did at Juventus, Lazio, and Udinese.
But here's the catch: Arsenal, despite a wobbly start to their title challenge, will be no pushovers. They've won only three of their first eight matches in 2026, including a draw with Wolves after leading 2-0.
So, how will Tudor line up his squad? Here are five intriguing possibilities:
3-4-2-1 Formation:
Tudor's go-to formation throughout his managerial career, it was working well for Spurs until a recent dip in form against Manchester City. The challenge? A lack of numbers, especially in defense. Tudor might need to get creative, perhaps involving midfielder Joao Palhinha or even the young Jun'ai Byfield, a 17-year-old center-back, in the back three.
This formation also suits Xavi Simons, keeping him central and in the action. However, with Wilson Odobert out for most of 2026 due to injury, who will fill the right-side number 10 role? Mathys Tel and Randal Kolo Muani aren't natural fits, and Conor Gallagher might be a better choice, able to drop into a central trio with Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr when needed.
3-4-1-2 Formation:
Tudor could bring back the magic he found with Kolo Muani at Juventus, where the Frenchman thrived. This formation would position Xavi centrally, with Gallagher supporting from midfield. It also offers two targets for wing-back crosses, a bonus if Pedro Porro returns to the lineup.
3-4-3 Formation:
A more aggressive approach, this formation features two high wingers alongside Dominic Solanke. However, it might push Xavi into an unfamiliar left-wing role, which isn't Tudor's typical style. He prefers width from wing-backs and a crowded center.
4-4-2 Formation:
Tudor mentioned adapting his system to the available players, and this formation could be the answer. It suits Archie Gray at right-back and is a classic setup. But it might leave the midfield thin and raise questions about Xavi's position, unless he plays off Solanke.
4-2-3-1 Formation:
This formation solves the Xavi dilemma, as Spurs have used it recently. It positions Gallagher or Xavi behind Solanke, with a robust midfield to match Arsenal. However, it's the same strategy that wasn't effective in Thomas Frank's final weeks, so it might not be the change needed to boost the team's morale.
And this is the part that could divide opinions: Is Tudor's tactical flexibility enough to secure a win against Arsenal? Will his squad adjustments pay off, or will Arsenal's recent struggles prove to be a red herring? Share your predictions and thoughts in the comments below!
