Arsenal, the Premier League leaders, have a point to prove when they host Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium on Thursday, according to manager Mikel Arteta.
Arsenal have a commanding five-point lead over Manchester City and an unbeaten record at home this season.
Arsenal’s impressive form has been fueled by their passionate fans, whom Arteta credits for creating an electric atmosphere. “They’ve been unbelievable again this season,” Arteta said, emphasizing their importance in lifting the team’s performance.
The stakes are high, with Arsenal seeking to maintain their position at the top of the table. Arteta expects his team to be excellent throughout the game, saying, “We want to maintain our position. To do that, we’re going to have to be excellent throughout the game.”
Liverpool, the reigning champions, bring extra motivation to the clash, having handed Arsenal their first defeat of the season in August. Arteta acknowledges their strength, calling them a “superb team” despite struggling with injuries and inconsistency this term.
Arteta is banking on Arsenal’s home advantage, with the Emirates Stadium crowd expected to create a lively atmosphere. “We become a different team,” he said, highlighting the fans’ impact on the team’s energy and confidence.
Liverpool sits fourth with 34 points, but Arteta warns against underestimating Arne Slot’s side. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Arsenal looking to prove their mettle against a strong opponent.
Arsenal vs Liverpool Team News, Predicted XI
Arteta may only be missing three players for the visit of Liverpool. Max Dowman and Cristhian Mosquera are definitely out with ankle problems, and Riccardo Calafiori is also missing with his “very awkward” unspecified injury.
Liverpool are nowhere near as fortunate on the attacking front, as Mohamed Salah (AFCON) and Alexander Isak (leg) are definitely out, and Slot admitted on Wednesday that Hugo Ekitike was yet to train with the team after missing the Fulham draw due to muscular issues.
Arsenal vs Liverpool Predicted XI
Arsenal Predicted XI:
Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Odegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Gyokeres, Trossard
Liverpool Predicted XI
Alisson; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Szoboszlai, Wirtz, Jones; Gakpo
