Arsenal news: Big North London Derby decision, fans make Unai Emery demand, Elneny message

The North London Derby is here.

The big day that the supporters of both clubs in north London look for first when the fixtures are announced is upon us, nice and early in the season.

Head coach Unai Emery has a few issues to deal with ahead of the game, with all eyes on the first XI selection that he makes at the Emirates this afternoon.

A couple of players have left the Emirates prior to the big game.

We've got all the details on that and the other big stories from around the club in the past 24 hours.

Unai Emery selection decision

It is derby day at the Emirates today.

And could there be a youngster sitting on the bench in one of the biggest games of the season?

(L-R) Buyako Saka and Granit Xhaka during a training session at London Colney (Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

With Nacho Monreal leaving the club for Real Sociedad this week, Unai Emery has a bit of an issue at left-back.

But first team training at London Colney suggests the boss is ready to place his faith in youth as cover.

Read all about his big decision here.

Players to benefit from Monreal exit

Monreal's exit may cause a selection dilemma for Unai Emery.

But it will be a benefit to certain players in the squad too.

Monreal had played every minute of every game so far this season, so it opens the door for other players to stake their claim, starting with the North London Derby.

Here are the players that will benefit.

Elneny message

There were two departures from Arsenal this weekend.

Monreal was joined in leaving the Emirates by Egyptian Mohamed Elneny.

But while Monreal's exit was permanent, Elneny's move was only on a season-long loan, to Besiktas.

Mo Elneny and Lucas Torreira of Arsenal during a training session at London Colney ((Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images))

And Elneny is not prepared to call time on his Arsenal career just yet, or his allegiance to the Gunners.

He sent a message to the Gunners supporters after leaving the club.

Read it here.

Fans' demand

Arsenal fans' eyes will be on the North London Derby today.

And not only will they want to get one over their biggest rivals, but they will want to put daylight between themselves and the other teams battling for the top four this season.

Arsenal fans during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Burnley (David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

The Gunners supporters watched Manchester United and Chelsea both held to a draw on Saturday afternoon.

And the fans have made a demand of boss Unai Emery as a result.

Read all about it here.