Mustafi headed home the opening goal of the game at the Emirates as well as conributing to keeping a clean sheet as Arsenal claimed the bragging rights in north London.
Speaking following the game, Wenger was delighted with the performance, likening Mustafi's leadership and organisational skills to those of hit compatriot Mertesacker.
"First of all, he's similar to Per on a mental front, but of course he's 10 years younger, and he's a leader, he's a motivator," the Arsenal boss explained.
"He has a strong focus, and he's strong in the challenge. He had an outstanding performance against Tottenham. In the air he was good. He started a bit nervy and slowly became stronger and stronger."
The game marked Mustafi's return to action after six weeks out with a thigh injury and the 25-year-old poured cold water on reports that he came close to a move away from the club in the summer.
"In the end, what happens in the changing room is the real thing," he said.
"I don't understand why people are just talking about things. How can they know? How can they know if I have or haven't been talking to clubs? It's just rumours.
"But I'm here. I'm standing right in front of you in an Arsenal shirt."