In a recent match, Arsenal faced Tottenham Hotspur in the North London derby, resulting in a significant loss for Spurs. The encounter took place on November 23, 2025, during the twelfth round of the Premier League season. Arsenal secured a decisive 4-1 victory, marking a challenging day for Tottenham.
Thierry Henry’s Critique of Kudus Mohammed
Notably, former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry expressed concern over Kudus Mohammed’s defensive performance during the match. Returning from injury, Kudus played for 78 minutes before being substituted for Brennan Johnson, receiving a performance rating of 6.1 from Flashscore.
Kudus’ Defensive Responsibilities
- Date of Match: November 23, 2025
- Final Score: Arsenal 4 – 1 Tottenham
- Kudus’ Time on Field: 78 minutes
- Kudus’ Performance Rating: 6.1
On Sky Sports, Henry critiqued Kudus, particularly regarding his lack of effort in contributing to the team’s defense. He emphasized that Spurs’ issues were not due to their defense alone but also stemmed from the performance of their wingers.
Henry articulated, “If the two players on the outside of your number 9 do not work well to stop the ball, you will suffer.” He pointed out that Kudus did not support the holding midfielders adequately, leading to exploitable gaps in Tottenham’s defense.
Implications for Tottenham
This defeat highlights concerns about Tottenham’s defensive strategy and individual player responsibilities. Kudus’ return to the lineup had been highly anticipated, but his performance raised questions about his readiness to contribute effectively in crucial match situations.
As the Premier League season progresses, Spurs will need to reassess their strategies, especially in high-stakes matches like the North London derby. The insights from Henry’s critique may serve as a wake-up call for both Kudus and the coaching staff moving forward.
