Here's the deal. Tottenham Hotspur play Arsenal this weekend. It's kind of a big deal around these parts. Arsenal have a defender named Gabriel Paulista. This poor soul didn't know about the North London Derby. Or at least he didn't know it was as big of a deal as it is. He was under the impression that Chelsea were Arsenal's biggest rivals until his teammates set him straight.
Here's a Q&A he did revealing this disturbing detail.
Anyways, the guy is from Brazil. It's likely he only knows what he sees on a TV. We'll give him a pass, I guess. To help him out let's go through and teach him all of the important derbies that currently exist inside the Premier League.
North London Derby: Tottenham vs. Arsenal
Yes, Gabriel. This is Arsenal's closest and biggest rival. Know it. Love it (or preferably hate it after Sunday). This historic derby began all the way back in 1887 and the sides have played a total of 180 competitive matches against each other. Despite what TV may indicate, Chelsea's natural rival is actually Fulham.
Merseyside Derby: Everton vs. Liverpool
The Merseyside Derby is the longest running top-flight derby in England. Liverpool's home ground Anfield is literally just less than a mile away from Everton's Goodison Park. They have played an astonishing 224 competitive matches. These days neither team is amazing, but the matches are usually enthralling.
Manchester Derby: Manchester United vs. Manchester City
Pretty self-explanatory here. Manchester United are one of the most recognizable names in the world of football. City's recent rise to prominence has made the rivalry much more glamorous than it once was. 170 total competitive matches have been played between the Manchester clubs.
Tyne-Wear Derby: Sunderland vs. Newcastle United
Despite both of these clubs being regular candidates for relegation, any time these sides meet it's must-watch stuff. The entertainment provided from this derby is inexplicable. Both club's supporters are top notch as well even though you can't understand anything they are saying.
West Midlands Derby: Aston Villa vs. West Bromich Albion
Uh, sure. Wikipedia says it, must be true.
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Derbies are natural rivalries based on location. There are many rivalries in English football, but only so many true derbies.
