Report: Arsenal Worries Threaten Hopes Before Anfield Showdown in Title Battle | OneFootball

Arsenal Worries Grow Before Anfield Showdown

Sunday’s Anfield showdown has the feel of an early title race 6 pointer. The new Premier League season is only weeks old but the fixture between Liverpool and Arsenal already carries the kind of intensity usually reserved for spring run-ins. Both sides have started strongly, both look determined to stake a claim, yet Arsenal’s mounting injury list threatens to cast a long shadow over their preparations.

Mikel Arteta’s team arrive with momentum after a narrow 1-0 win at Old Trafford and a convincing 5-0 demolition of Leeds at the Emirates. Those results emphasised Arsenal’s attacking intent and defensive resilience. However, the victory over Leeds came at a heavy cost, leaving the squad stretched just as they prepare for one of their toughest assignments of the campaign.

Key Absentees Threaten Arsenal’s Balance

The Gunners’ depth is under pressure, with five first-team players either ruled out or major doubts for the Anfield trip. That scenario creates Arsenal worries about whether they can go toe to toe with the reigning champions on Merseyside.

Christian Nørgaard, a summer arrival tipped to strengthen midfield solidity, has yet to feature. Arteta admitted after the United win that “he had a little issue the medical staff will address”. His lack of training time makes it unlikely Arsenal will risk him against Liverpool, though his presence would have provided invaluable protection in front of the defence.

Ben White, normally a reliable figure, is also in doubt. He was withdrawn in Manchester and missed the following open session before Leeds. While his issue is believed to be minor, he still faces a race to prove his fitness. With Liverpool’s pace and movement, Arsenal will not want to head into the Anfield showdown without his versatility.

Photo: IMAGO

Saka and Havertz Confirmed Out

Bukayo Saka’s absence is the most damaging. The winger limped off against Leeds after a hamstring problem and subsequent scans confirmed he will not return before the September international break. His ability to carry the ball and stretch opposition defences has been central to Arsenal’s rise. Losing him removes one of Arteta’s most decisive weapons.

Kai Havertz is another guaranteed absentee. The German has struggled with a knee injury since the opening weekend and reports suggest surgery may be required. He will definitely be unavailable for the Liverpool clash. While inconsistent at times, his movement and technical ability provide another dimension to Arsenal’s attack. Without him, Arteta must find new solutions to maintain rhythm.

Ødegaard Injury Adds to Uncertainty

Martin Ødegaard’s situation is finely balanced. The captain was forced off with a shoulder injury against Leeds and underwent scans to assess the damage. Arteta explained that “Martin felt something in his shoulder when he landed” but insisted initial results were positive. Norway have still called him into their international squad, which suggests the injury is not severe. Whether he can start at Anfield is another matter. Arsenal will be cautious, yet his creativity and leadership are difficult to replace in such a high-profile game.

Photo: IMAGO

Anfield Clash Shapes Early Title Race

This fixture is no ordinary August encounter. Arsenal and Liverpool have both been tipped to challenge Manchester City in the months ahead, and neither side can afford to lose ground so early. For Liverpool, Arne Slot’s side are defending champions after a triumphant 2024-25 campaign, and their supporters will expect another statement victory at home. For Arsenal, the clash offers a chance to show they can match their rivals despite adversity.

The significance is amplified by the timing. A win for either side would not only extend their perfect start but also send a clear message to the rest of the league. Defeat, by contrast, could deepen doubts. Arsenal worries are not only about the players missing but about whether the squad has the maturity to grind out results under pressure.

Anfield is never a welcoming venue for visitors. The crowd, the intensity, and Liverpool’s ability to raise their game in big moments make it one of the toughest arenas in Europe. For Arsenal, the Anfield showdown will test both their resilience and their tactical flexibility. Arteta must find a way to compensate for missing stars while keeping belief alive.

The early title race 6 pointer tag may sound premature, but history shows that games between top rivals often define the rhythm of a season. Even in August, points dropped can linger, especially when direct competitors are involved. Arsenal will know that even a draw could be valuable, while Liverpool will see victory as a chance to strike a psychological blow.

Final Thoughts

Arsenal face their biggest challenge of the season so far and they do so under the cloud of an injury crisis. Losing Saka and Havertz, doubts around Ødegaard, White, and Nørgaard, all combine to leave Arteta with a selection headache. What was shaping up to be a straight contest of form and quality now feels like a battle of depth and character.

The Anfield showdown could set the tone for the coming months. If Arsenal emerge unscathed, the result will strengthen belief that they can withstand adversity and sustain a title push. If they falter, the missed opportunity may be remembered deep into the campaign.