Arsenal vs Everton Preview

• Arsenal to win
• Over 1.5 goals

Arsenal welcome Everton to the Emirates Stadium as they look to maintain their momentum in the Premier League title race.

After a minor setback in their last league outing, the Gunners will be eager to capitalise on their exceptional home form against an Everton side buoyed by recent defensive resilience.

Arsenal: Dominant at Home

Arsenal’s quest for Premier League glory took a slight detour with a 1-1 draw at Fulham last weekend, a frustrating result that kept them from narrowing the gap on league leaders Liverpool.

However, Mikel Arteta’s men quickly returned to winning ways with a commanding 3-0 Champions League victory over Monaco midweek.

The Gunners are back at the Emirates, where they have been imperious this year.

Arsenal have won each of their past three competitive home games without conceding and boast an impressive 81% home win percentage in the Premier League in 2024 (W13, D2, L1). This marks their best home performance in a calendar year since 2007.

Adding to their confidence is their stellar historical record against Everton. Arsenal have defeated the Toffees a record 102 times in the top-flight, more than any other team has beaten a single opponent. Arteta’s men will aim to extend that dominance and keep their title ambitions alive.

Key Player: Martin Ødegaard

The Norwegian playmaker has been in scintillating form since returning from injury. Ødegaard has created more chances (17) than any other Premier League player since 10 November, underlining his importance in unlocking defences.

Everton: Building Defensive Resilience

Unlike Arsenal, Everton come into this clash with the benefit of a longer rest after their Merseyside Derby was postponed last weekend due to adverse weather.

Sean Dyche’s side will look to build on their impressive 4-0 victory over Wolves, a result that highlighted their defensive solidity and ability to capitalise on opportunities.

Everton have lost just once in their last four Premier League matches (W1, D2), keeping three clean sheets in the process. While their defence has been a bright spot, their historical struggles at the Emirates present a daunting challenge.

The Toffees have managed just one clean sheet and a solitary win in their last 12 competitive trips to Arsenal’s home ground (W1, D1, L10), a 1-0 victory in April 2021.

Key Player: Ashley Young

The veteran full-back made history in Everton’s win over Wolves, becoming the oldest player to reach 50 Premier League goals at 39 years and 148 days old.

Young will look to bring his experience to bear, though his last goal against Arsenal dates back to Manchester United’s 8-2 win in August 2011.

Tactical Battle

Arsenal will likely dominate possession, using Ødegaard’s creativity and Bukayo Saka’s pace to exploit Everton’s defensive structure.

Arteta’s side thrives on quick passing and intricate build-up play, and their ability to break down low blocks will be crucial against a resolute Everton defence.

Everton, under Dyche, will aim to frustrate Arsenal with a disciplined defensive setup, relying on counter-attacks and set-pieces to create chances.

Players like Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Young could be pivotal in turning defence into attack, while the midfield battle will be key in determining whether Everton can disrupt Arsenal’s rhythm.

What’s at Stake

For Arsenal, this is an opportunity to maintain pressure on Liverpool and the other title contenders. A victory would not only keep them in the hunt but also reinforce their dominance at home.

Everton, meanwhile, are fighting to pull further away from the relegation zone. A positive result at the Emirates would boost confidence and demonstrate their ability to compete against the league’s elite.

Head-to-Head Insights

• Arsenal have defeated Everton a record 102 times in top-flight history.
• Everton’s last win at the Emirates came in April 2021 (1-0).
• Arsenal have kept clean sheets in each of their past three competitive home games.

Prediction

Arsenal’s form at the Emirates, coupled with their historical dominance over Everton, makes them strong favourites for this encounter. While Everton’s defensive improvements under Dyche will make it challenging for the Gunners, Arteta’s side has the quality and creativity to break them down.

Prediction: Arsenal 2-0 Everton

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Arsenal v Everton, 2024/25 | Premier League