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Why Arsenal face an awkward defensive puzzle against undefeated Leeds

Mikel Arteta secured his long-term future this week with a contract running through June 2030, but his immediate challenge arrives on Saturday at Emirates Stadium. Facing an undefeated Leeds United squad, second-place Arsenal must demonstrate that their 3-0 setback at Brighton before the international break was an anomaly rather than a symptom of deeper instability.

1. Arsenal must respond to their heaviest league loss in three years

The three-goal defeat at Brighton on 19 September represented Arsenal's most lopsided Premier League loss since May 2023, prompting Arteta to criticize a lack of respect within his team's performance. Sitting on 12 points from five outings, the hosts now put a flawless recent home record on the line.

Arsenal have won five straight league matches at Emirates Stadium, allowing just a solitary goal while tallying 10 across that stretch. Another slip would threaten their position near the summit.

2. Leeds bring elite defensive resistance to north London

Leeds United occupy fifth place with nine points, propelled by an unbeaten opening run of two victories and three draws. Their foundation rests on defensive frugality: Leeds have conceded only three league goals across five matches, matching Everton for the best defensive record in the division.

Coming off a scoreless draw against Crystal Palace, Leeds will look to top scorer Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has three goals this term, to test an unsettled Arsenal backline.

3. Depleted backlines shape tactical choices for both managers

Selection headaches will influence both lineups. Arsenal must cope without defender William Saliba due to a lower back problem, while Christos Tzolis is out with a thigh injury suffered during the international break.

Several key figures—including Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, Ben White, Ezri Konsa, and Cristhian Mosquera—face fitness doubts. Leeds arrive with their own absences, as Joe Rodon and Mateo Joseph remain unavailable for the trip.

Saturday's 12:30 BST encounter tests whether Leeds can replicate their early-season solidity against a side that beat them 5-0 and 4-0 in their two meetings last season. For Arsenal, top scorer Bukayo Saka, who has three league goals, will carry much of the attacking burden as Arteta seeks an immediate reaction following his contract extension.

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