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    Premier League News: Chelsea prepare for “the best Arsenal possible” on Sunday

    Thomas Tuchel believes Chelsea’s visit to Emirates Stadium could inspire Arsenal after a poor start to the season.

    The Gunners lost 2-0 at Brentford in their first 2021-22 Premier League match last week and now face a daunting London derby against European champions Chelsea.

    However, Mikel Arteta faced a COVID-19 outbreak prior to the Brentford defeat, meaning Tuchel said it would be “difficult to predict” the formation.

    The Chelsea manager expects Arsenal to respond, however, after beating the Blues at home and away last season.

    “It’s always difficult, always tight, like in derbies,” said Tuchel. “They had a bit of a rough start, but I think from their point of view it can be of great help that a great rival within the city comes in now.

    “It can create a situation where they stick together and try to win over their audience with a strong performance. Hence, we should be absolutely prepared for the best Arsenal possible.

    “They have qualities: a strong coach, a strong team, a strong line-up, strong signings. I think we should prepare for the best Arsenal possible.

    “At the same time, we do what we have to do, push the standards to the limit, see where our limit lies. We are looking for an intense game, for intensity, for a rhythm, for a safe game inside and outside the ball. This is what we are looking for.

    “Anything else, except a difficult match, would be a big surprise.”

    Arsenal could win three in a row against the Blues in the Premier League for the first time since 2004, while they have already achieved three consecutive victories in all competitions against London rivals.

    That run dates back to the 2019-20 FA Cup final, with Chelsea winning just three of their last 14 games against the Gunners in all competitions.

    They have won at least four away London derbies in the top flight, their longest streak since five under Jose Mourinho in 2006.

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