Arsenal vs. Chelsea in this weekend's big Premier League derby

Sunday's derby clash in the third round of the Premier League pits Arsenal against Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium. Both London teams have started the new campaign with a perfect six points, but they have showcased vastly different playing styles in their opening two matches.

Arsenal sit third in the table after securing two clean-sheet victories — 3-0 against Coventry City and 1-0 against Aston Villa. Mikel Arteta's side continues to display exceptional defensive stability, having conceded only one shot on target from a total of 11 attempts by their opponents in their first two games.

Meanwhile, Xabi Alonso's Chelsea are in fourth place and are enjoying a high-scoring start with a total of 12 goals in their matches — a 3-2 win over Fulham and a 4-2 victory against Brighton. The Blues' attack, led by Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, and João Pedro, has demonstrated speed and efficiency, despite the team recording lower possession percentages.

An interesting subplot to the match is the first head-to-head managerial clash in the Premier League between Mikel Arteta and Xabi Alonso. The two managers grew up together in the Basque Country and have maintained a close friendship since childhood.

William Saliba will miss the match for the hosts due to a back injury, while Jurriën Timber has resumed light training, but his participation remains doubtful. Bruno Guimarães also took a slight knock after the match against Aston Villa. Up front, Bukayo Saka, who has scored in both opening games of the season, will once again lead the attack alongside Kai Havertz and Christos Tzolis.

For Chelsea, midfielder Moisés Caicedo is on the bench following injury concerns, while Jordan Henderson is sidelined. The defensive line in front of Emiliano Martínez will feature Wesley Fofana, Maxence Lacroix, and Levi Colwill.

Arsenal are on a nine-match unbeaten streak against Chelsea in the Premier League (6 wins, 3 draws). Furthermore, the West London Blues have lost their last four league visits to the Emirates, with an aggregate score of 11-2 in favour of the hosts.