Arsenal vs Liverpool: Who Needs the Win More in Premier League Title Race? | OneFootball

Arsenal vs Liverpool: Crucial Premier League Showdown Awaits

Liverpool’s visit to Arsenal feels pivotal, even if it’s only the ninth league game of the 2024-25 Premier League season. With Liverpool’s impressive early form, sitting a point ahead of Manchester City, they’ve positioned themselves as serious title contenders under new head coach Arne Slot. Winning seven of their eight matches so far, they enter this fixture with confidence. Arsenal, however, find themselves in a less comfortable spot. After a promising start, their loss to Bournemouth and two draws have seen them slip four points behind Liverpool. This makes today’s game at the Emirates Stadium vital for their title ambitions.

Speaking to The Athletic, Arsenal’s James McNicholas and Liverpool’s Gregg Evans discussed the key factors influencing this high-stakes clash.

Greater Pressure on Arsenal to Secure Points

James McNicholas argued, “This is probably Liverpool’s biggest test in the Premier League under new head coach Arne Slot, so it is undoubtedly an important game for them. But for Arsenal, I think it takes on even greater significance.”

Arsenal’s loss to Bournemouth has already raised alarms. Falling seven points behind Liverpool after just nine games could be detrimental to their season, especially with Manchester City having a favourable fixture against Southampton. McNicholas pointed out that, “Arsenal need a result here to stay within touching distance of the front runners.”

On the other hand, Gregg Evans added, “With the amount of points they’ve dropped already, you have to feel like it is Arsenal. A defeat, for example, would be costly, even at this early stage of the season.” The Gunners must avoid further setbacks if they hope to maintain a competitive title challenge.

Timing Favouring Liverpool’s Strong Form

McNicholas emphasised that this might be an opportune moment for Liverpool to face Arsenal. “Easy one: yes. After the Bournemouth defeat, a lot of the analysis focused on William Saliba’s sending-off. Just as important was the fact Arsenal entered the game without arguably their two best attacking players, Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka, through injury.”

While there is hope Saka may return, Odegaard remains sidelined. Arsenal’s defensive unit is also struggling with injuries, as Riccardo Calafiori’s recent setback adds to the list of absentees including Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Tierney. Zinchenko’s limited playtime further compounds their woes, and new signings Mikel Merino and Raheem Sterling are still adjusting to Arteta’s style.

Given these challenges, McNicholas believes, “This feels like an ideal time to play Arsenal.” However, Evans countered, “I don’t think there’s ever a good time to play Arsenal, because of the quality they have. Granted, there are a few absentees and the form so far this season hasn’t been as impressive as expected, but that doesn’t completely reduce the threat.”

Photo: IMAGO

Potential Weaknesses in Liverpool’s Defence

Liverpool’s defence has been solid, conceding just three goals this season. However, they are not without vulnerabilities. Evans highlighted, “As Chelsea showed at Anfield last weekend, direct running at the full-backs caused plenty of problems.”

Although Ryan Gravenberch has been effective in the holding role, facing top sides like Arsenal will reveal if he’s truly ready for the Premier League’s elite level. Nonetheless, with Virgil van Dijk in stellar form and a settled partnership with Ibrahima Konate, Liverpool’s backline has become more resilient. Arne Slot credits their improvement to better ball possession and diligent work during tough phases of play. But as Evans notes, “This will be their toughest test yet, though.”

McNicholas believes this is where Arsenal can capitalise. “That will make for comforting reading for Arsenal fans — especially given that Gabriel Martinelli’s performance against Shakhtar seemed to be indicative of a player finding a rich vein of form. If Arsenal can get a regular supply to him and Saka, they can hurt Liverpool.”

Predictions: A Battle of Strategies and Mindsets

Both teams will bring contrasting styles to the game, which should make for an engaging contest. Arsenal’s need for a win will likely see them pushing forward, especially if Saka returns. Liverpool, under Slot, have built their success on quick transitions and high pressing, allowing their forwards to thrive. If Arsenal can neutralise Liverpool’s full-backs and dominate possession, they may find success. However, a failure to exploit Liverpool’s defence could prove costly.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This match represents a real test of character for both sides. For Arsenal, a loss would set back their title hopes, creating a psychological barrier that could linger throughout the season. Arteta must ensure his squad regroups quickly after the Bournemouth defeat, especially if they’re to keep pace with Liverpool and City. Saka’s potential return might just give them the attacking edge they’ve been missing.

Liverpool, on the other hand, look to cement their top spot, showing that they can take on challengers in these big fixtures. Their defensive solidity will be key, and with Van Dijk leading by example, they have reason to be confident. However, a lapse could see them exposed by Arsenal’s pace on the wings.

In essence, this is not just a match but a statement of intent from both clubs. If Liverpool secure a win at the Emirates, it would be another step toward establishing themselves as favourites. Conversely, if Arsenal can muster a response, they’ll stay in the hunt and send a message to their rivals. Expect an intense, high-stakes affair as both sides vie for early control in the Premier League title race.