Despite a defeat against Bournemouth last weekend, Arsenal are determined to bounce back on Sunday evening as they set to host league leaders Liverpool in an electrifying encounter. While they remain firm favourites to challenge the mighty Manchester City for the coveted Premier League crown, Mikel Arteta has urged the home fans to create a hostile ambience to make it more difficult for Arne Slot’s army.
A midweek win against Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League must have boosted their confidence amid several key absentees. Liverpool, on the other hand, are off to a flying start with 11 wins in 12 games across competitions, and their measured and controlled approach under the Dutch boss could produce an intense tactical battle at the Emirates.
Predicted 4-4-2 Arsenal Lineup To Face Liverpool
Defence
David Raya had a night to forget at the Vitality Stadium. But he remains irreplaceable for his outing, reflexes between the sticks and ball-playing ability from the last line of defence.
Meanwhile, the Gunners will be without William Saliba who received a marching order against the Cherries. A knee injury sustained against Shakhtar would keep Riccardo Calafiori on the sidelines for a few weeks. Also, Jurrien Timber, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Trippier’s potential absence might force Arteta to look for sporadic options in the defensive third. Despite his frailty at the back, Oleksandr Zinchenko could get the nod over teenage ace Myles Lewis-Skelly down the left-hand side. Jakub Kiwior is expected to slot in deep defence and partner with Gabriel Magalhães, but the gaffer would be relieved to have Ben White as the right fullback.
Midfield
Arsenal are still without skipper Martin Ødegaard, but the likes of Declan Rice, Thomas Partey, Jorginho and Mikel Merino offer them depth and quality in the middle of the park. Rice is an assured starter for his power, stamina and ball-carrying traits, and the Englishman could be paired up with Partey for his physical presence. Bukayo Saka is still nursing a hamstring strain picked up in the England camp and the Spanish chief could opt for Raheem Sterling on the right against his former employers. Gabriel Martinelli has troubled Trent Alexander-Arnold in previous meetings and his flair and finesse from the left could lead to goal-scoring opportunities.
Attack
Kai Havertz has netted six times so far this season while spearheading the attack and the German hitman must retain his starting status alongside Leandro Trossard. Gabriel Jesus could be involved as a substitute to inject more firepower high up the pitch.
