Mohammed Kudus Set for Crucial North London Derby Test as Spurs Face Determined Arsenal

Mohammed Kudus Set for Crucial North London Derby Test as Spurs Face Determined Arsenal

  • Kudus is set for a high-stakes EPL showdown with a tough Arsenal going against Tottenham
  • The Ghanaian star’s individual duel is tipped to be one of the defining battles of the North London clash
  • Fans are buzzing with anticipation as Kudus aims to shine in one of the league’s most intense rivalries
  • Ghanaian sports journalist Dr Frank Owusu has backed Mohammed Kudus to dominate at the Emirates

Tottenham Hotspur are preparing for one of their biggest fixtures of the season, and all eyes are on Mohammed Kudus.

The Ghanaian star has been the standout success story of Spurs’ 2025 summer business, emerging as the club’s most consistent attacking threat in a campaign where several other forward signings have fallen short.

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Mohammed Kudus is gearing up for an explosive showdown with Ricardo Calafiori in Arsenal–Tottenham EPL thriller on November 23, 2025. Image credit: Visionhaus
Source: Getty Images

His return from injury could not come at a better moment. Spurs enter the North London Derby as clear underdogs, but Mohammed Kudus’ presence brings renewed confidence to Thomas Frank’s squad.

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His creativity, ball progression, and ability to unlock defences have made him indispensable in Tottenham’s push to remain inside the top five.

However, according to Football Insider, Tottenham’s optimism is tempered by a major update from their rivals. Despite fears surrounding Riccardo Calafiori’s fitness, reports indicated that the young Arsenal left-back is fully available for selection after leaving the Italy camp earlier in the international break.

The initial injury scare has turned out to be insignificant, meaning Arsenal will have one of the Premier League’s most influential defenders ready for the derby.

Calafiori braces up for Mohammed Kudus test

Calafiori’s confirmed availability significantly raises the difficulty of Kudus’ task. According to Spurs HQ, the Italian defender has been one of the league’s most complete left-backs this season, combining exceptional ball-winning ability with elite passing and build-up contributions.

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Arsenal's Ricardo Calafiori is in line to feature against Tottenham on Sunday, November 23, 2025. Image credit: Robert Doyle
Source: Getty Images

His tactical intelligence and composure under pressure make him a particularly tough matchup for any winger, and Kudus will now have to work harder to find space and create chances.

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Tottenham supporters are well aware of the gulf in quality between Calafiori and backup option Myles Lewis-Skelly. Had Calafiori been ruled out, Kudus would have enjoyed a more favourable duel on the right flank.

Now, that tactical advantage disappears, making Kudus’ performance even more crucial if Spurs hope to stand a chance against a dominant Arsenal side.

Meanwhile, Arsenal, currently leading the Premier League table, enter the derby with momentum despite concerns over Gabriel Magalhães, who picked up a knock during the international break.

Even so, the Gunners remain heavy favourites, while Spurs rely heavily on Kudus to create the moment of magic that could tilt the derby in their favour.

Dr Frank Owusu Ansah praises Kudus’ impact

In the meantime, earlier this week, in an exclusive chat with YEN.com.gh, respected Ghanaian football journalist Dr Frank Owusu Ansah highlighted Kudus’ meteoric rise in England, stressing that his influence at Tottenham has already exceeded expectations.

"Kudus represents the future of African football. His discipline, intelligence, and relentless drive make him a rare talent. Every performance shows growth, maturity, and fearlessness. He carries Ghana’s hopes with pride, and I believe he is on the path to becoming one of the most influential players of his generation."

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How Kudus can shine at Tottenham

YEN.com.gh earlier highlighted three crucial elements that could shape Mohammed Kudus’ success at Tottenham as he chases his first goal for the club.

The 25-year-old must adapt swiftly to Thomas Frank’s tactical system, build stronger on-field chemistry with his teammates, and keep his confidence intact amid growing pressure.

Source: YEN.com.gh

Authors:
Gariba Raubil avatar

Gariba Raubil (Sports Editor) Gariba Raubil is a skilled content writer and journalist with over 14 years of experience in sports journalism. He is a CAF and FIFA-accredited reporter and has been a member of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) since 2020. He has covered several international tournaments including two All Africa Games in 2015 and 2023. He also reported on the 2017 CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon and the 2018 Women’s AFCON. Email: gariba.raubil@yen.com.gh