The Emirates Stadium is set for a massive showdown as Arsenal host Liverpool in a game that could have significant implications on the Premier League title race. With both teams eyeing the top of the table, the outcome of this match could prove pivotal, especially for Arsenal, who are trailing the league leaders by four points. Mikel Arteta faces a tough task, particularly due to injuries and suspensions, while Arne Slot‘s in-form Liverpool side will be confident after a strong start to the season.
Arsenal vs Liverpool Team News & Tactics
Arsenal
Mikel Arteta’s squad is dealing with a series of injuries, adding pressure ahead of this crucial encounter. William Saliba is suspended after his red card last weekend, while Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber remain doubts with injury concerns. Martin Odegaard is also out, leaving Arsenal with a defensive dilemma.
If Timber is fit, he may slot into the left-back position to counter Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah. If Timber is unavailable, Arteta might shift Ben White into the center-back role alongside Gabriel Magalhães, with Thomas Partey potentially filling in at right-back. In midfield, Mikel Merino could partner Declan Rice, while Gabriel Jesus, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Martinelli could lead the attack if Saka remains sidelined.
Probable Lineup (4-4-2): Raya; Partey, Ben White, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Jesus, Rice, Merino, Martinelli; Trossard, Havertz
Liverpool
Liverpool’s main injury concern is the absence of Diogo Jota, who suffered a rib injury, while Alisson Becker continues to recover from a hamstring issue. Despite these absences, Liverpool’s lineup is expected to be relatively consistent with Darwin Núñez leading the line after his goal against RB Leipzig midweek.
Caoimhin Kelleher will start in goal, with Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ibrahima Konaté, Virgil van Dijk, and Andy Robertson in defense. In midfield, Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch should continue, while Curtis Jones may start in the attacking role over Dominik Szoboszlai. Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo will support Núñez in attack.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konaté, van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Jones, Gakpo; Núñez
Key Stats
- Arsenal have won nine of their last ten competitive matches at the Emirates Stadium.
- Arsenal are unbeaten in their last four Premier League meetings with Liverpool.
- Liverpool have won seven of their eight Premier League games this season, maintaining a 100% away record in all competitions.
- Liverpool have scored at least two goals in 10 of their last 12 Premier League matches.
Player to Watch: Thomas Partey
Thomas Partey’s versatility could be crucial in this game, as Arteta might deploy him either as a right-back or in central midfield, depending on the availability of other players. Given Liverpool’s attacking threat, Partey will need to bring his best defensive and tactical awareness to keep his team solid. His role could be decisive in controlling the midfield and neutralizing Liverpool’s offensive threats.
This clash between Arsenal and Liverpool promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams looking to strengthen their title bids. Arsenal will need to overcome their injury setbacks, while Liverpool aim to continue their strong form and increase their lead over the Gunners.
Prediction
Arsenal 1-2 Liverpool
How to Watch Arsenal vs Liverpool
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