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IMPREGNABLE EMIRATES FORTRESS: MERINO READY TO STRIKE AGAINST IN-FORM COTTAGERS



Arsenal – Fulham

April 1st, 2025

Historical dominance and April Fools' Day magic – these are Arsenal's main trump cards ahead of the London derby against Fulham. The Gunners have never lost at home to the Cottagers in 31 league meetings (24 wins, 7 draws). This statistic represents an absolute unique feat in English football history.

The Gunners also have an almost mystical ability to win on April 1st, having won all seven of their Premier League matches played on this date with an impressive 25:3 goal difference. Only Chelsea can boast such a perfect record on a specific date.

However, Fulham certainly won't go down without a fight. The Cottagers are currently unbeaten in three games against Arsenal (1 win, 2 draws). Additionally, they've won five of their last eight league matches and have significantly improved their away form.

London derbies have been Arsenal's specialty this season – they've already collected 20 points in city battles. But Fulham are also shining in this regard. With four wins in London derbies, they're approaching their historic record (5 wins).

An interesting aspect of the match will be both teams' minimalist approach to shooting. Arsenal's games this season contain an average of just 23.6 shots on goal, the fewest of any team in the Premier League.

Fulham have had exceptionally productive substitutes this season. Their bench players have already scored 13 goals, just two short of equaling the league record.

Arsenal's defensive wall, however, is almost impenetrable. In 11 of 29 matches, they've managed to limit their opponents to less than 0.50 expected goals. Fulham recorded just 0.16 xG in their December meeting.

Key players will be Fulham's left-back Antonee Robinson, who leads the Premier League in interceptions (50) and runs into the final third (344), and Arsenal's midfielder Mikel Merino, whose Premier League goals almost always bring victory.

We thank OPTA for providing the statistical data.


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