Liverpool vs Arsenal: Match Preview, Latest Team News and Score Prediction | OneFootball

Liverpool vs Arsenal Preview with Latest Team News Ahead of Anfield Clash

Anfield stages one of the Premier League’s early season highlights this Sunday as Liverpool welcome Arsenal. Both sides arrive at the top of the table with perfect records, a reminder of the quality and intent driving their respective campaigns. Tottenham remain the only other side yet to drop points, underlining how quickly the season has sparked into life.

Liverpool’s season opened with a convincing 4-1 win over Bournemouth, before their resilience was tested in a dramatic 2-1 victory at Newcastle. That match will live long in the memory as 16-year-old debutant Rio Ngumoha struck a 100th-minute winner. While the drama showcased Liverpool’s fighting spirit, it also highlighted defensive issues. Conceding four goals in two matches, Arne Slot’s side have faced questions about their vulnerability to the counter-attack.

Arsenal, by contrast, have combined defensive solidity with attacking fluency. They edged out Manchester United before demolishing Leeds 5-0 at the Emirates, establishing themselves as an early frontrunner in the title race. Mikel Arteta’s side have yet to concede a goal this campaign, a stark contrast to Liverpool’s occasional frailties.

Photo IMAGO

Team News Updates

When the teamsheets arrive on Sunday afternoon, much of the focus will be on whether Eberechi Eze makes his Arsenal debut. The summer signing was unveiled before last weekend’s fixture against Leeds, and his creativity could add another dimension to Arteta’s side.

Arsenal face setbacks elsewhere. Kai Havertz is ruled out following knee surgery, while concerns remain over Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka, both of whom suffered injuries against Leeds. Christian Norgaard is racing to regain fitness, while 15-year-old Max Dowman, who featured briefly last week, is unlikely to be risked in such a high-profile match. Viktor Gyokeres is expected to lead the line again after scoring twice against Leeds.

Liverpool’s situation is far more straightforward. Jeremie Frimpong remains sidelined with a hamstring injury sustained against Bournemouth, although he is expected back after the international break. Virgil van Dijk escaped unscathed from a heavy challenge at Newcastle, while Conor Bradley and Alexis Mac Allister returned to training this week. Bradley’s fitness should allow Dominik Szoboszlai to resume his preferred midfield role after filling in at right-back.

Photo IMAGO

Slot is unlikely to gamble on Ngumoha from the start despite his remarkable late winner on Tyneside, preferring experience against an opponent of Arsenal’s stature. Harvey Elliott may miss out entirely as speculation grows over a move to RB Leipzig before the transfer deadline.

Key Tactical Battles

This match promises to offer an early glimpse into the balance of power in the Premier League. Liverpool’s attacking options remain formidable, but questions persist about defensive discipline. Arsenal, meanwhile, look well-drilled, capable of striking quickly in transition and punishing any lapses at the back.

The battle between Liverpool’s backline and Arsenal’s frontline could be decisive. The pace and movement of Gyokeres, coupled with the creativity of Odegaard if fit, may trouble a Liverpool defence already tested this season. Conversely, Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo and Hugo Ekitike offer the Reds a direct threat against an Arsenal back four that has yet to concede.

Photo IMAGO

Prediction for Anfield Clash

Both sides are operating at a high level and appear strong contenders to finish in the top two come May. Liverpool’s attacking rhythm and Anfield’s atmosphere will be factors in their favour, but Arsenal’s defensive record and clinical edge suggest they can expose their rival’s weaknesses.

Prediction: Arsenal to win 2-1.