Published: 11:19 BST, 6 September 2026 | Updated: 11:23 BST, 6 September 2026
We're only on the third weekend of the season but already we have a big London derby on our hands – with Xabi Alonso taking his Chelsea side to take on his great friend Mikel Arteta and Arsenal this Sunday.
The Gunners will be looking to continue the perfect start to their title defence, while Chelsea – who have also won two from two – will hope to prove they can contend with last season's champions.
Old friends reunite for this grudge match and statisticians at Sofascore have ranked the best combined XI based on this season's stats. So read on to see the team – and find out who wins the player count 7-4…
Martinez's first game with Chelsea after signing from Aston Villa, less than a week ago, may, on paper, have made fans nervous given he conceded three goals.
But the goalkeeping position has been seen as one of Chelsea's main weaknesses with Robert Sanchez around, and the former World Cup winner goes straight into this combined XI.
Despite David Raya not conceding a goal this season, Martinez edges him when it comes to the ratings – perhaps due to the Arsenal man only facing one shot on target so far this term.
Emiliano Martinez (pictured) gets the nod ahead of David Raya in between the sticks
The 28-year-old remains one of Arsenal's most dependable players, continuing to be a cornerstone in Arsenal's defence.
White has been dribbled past twice during these first two matches and has just under ten clearances, helping his side to two consecutive clean sheets.
The defender's passing has also been a highlight, with White registering an assist in his side's opening league appearance against Coventry.
The 20-year-old is one of the younger faces in Chelsea's squad. Despite that, the young defender has made appearances in both Premier League matches, and an appearance in Chelsea's Carabao Cup victory against League One Luton, who are managed by ex-Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere.
Acheampong's stellar performance as one of the starting XI against Fulham showed his potential; he won four tackles and six ground duels, and also blocked two shots.
A player linked with leaving Chelsea this summer could now be an important cog in Xabi Alonso's side this season.
Lacroix arrived at Stamford Bridge this summer with a sizeable price tag – £52million – but it already seems Chelsea have landed a defensive stalwart for their club.
Source: Read the original article on www.dailymail.com
Written by https://futureknowledge.in/
