Last updated on September 1, 2025
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Both teams are creating plenty of chances this season, but whoever is more ruthless in front of goal could walk away with the points.
Image credit: MatchDay Fever
The stage is set for a thrilling Premier League clash as Liverpool welcomes Arsenal to Anfield.
Both teams are eager to make a statement early in the season, and fans are expecting fireworks.
With Liverpool looking to maintain their strong home form and Arsenal facing a tough injury-hit squad, this match promises excitement, drama, and some unforgettable moments.
Table of Contents
Match Context
This fixture marks Matchweek 3 of the 2025–26 Premier League season, with both teams entering the match undefeated.
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Liverpool has secured two wins, including a dramatic last-minute victory over Newcastle.
Arsenal has also won both of their opening matches, including a commanding 5–0 triumph over Leeds.
The outcome of this match could set the tone for the rest of the season, with both clubs aiming to establish themselves as early title contenders.
Current Form of Both Teams
Liverpool’s attack has been potent, leading the league in goals scored, but their defense has shown vulnerabilities, conceding goals in both matches.
Manager Arne Slot will be looking to tighten the defense while maintaining their attacking prowess.
Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta, has been impressive, especially in their attacking play, but they face challenges with key injuries affecting their squad.
Head-to-Head Reminder (Last Match Results)
In their most recent encounter on May 11, 2025, at Anfield, Liverpool and Arsenal played to a 2–2 draw.
Liverpool took a 2–0 lead with goals from Cody Gakpo and Luis Díaz, but Arsenal mounted a comeback with goals from Gabriel Martinelli and Mikel Merino.
This match highlighted the attacking capabilities of both teams and set the stage for another exciting encounter.
Team News
Liverpool
Manager Arne Slot confirmed no new injury concerns following the recent match against Newcastle.
Conor Bradley, who recently returned from injury, is still regaining full fitness but has trained more regularly this week.
Alexis Mac Allister, absent from the last match, has resumed training and is expected to be available for selection.
Captain Virgil Van Dijk remains fit despite a harsh tackle from Anthony Gordon.
Jeremie Frimpong remains sidelined until after the international break.
With a fully fit squad, Slot has a range of options to choose from.
The midfield is more likely to feature Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch (with Alexis Mac Allister or Harvey Elliott possible depending on fitness).
While the front line is expected to include Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo and Florian Wirtz — Hugo Ekitike is also a strong candidate to lead the attack.
🚨 Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke will both START on Sunday vs Liverpool pic.twitter.com/RF0c1lSyAC
— Arsenal Press (@ArsenalPress_) August 27, 2025
The right-back position remains a point of discussion, with Bradley pushing for a starting role .
Arsenal
Arsenal is facing several key absences ahead of their clash with Liverpool.
Bukayo Saka is sidelined with a hamstring injury, Martin Ødegaard has a shoulder issue but may recover in time, and Kai Havertz is out long-term due to a knee injury sustained on matchday one .
Additionally, Gabriel Jesus, Leandro Trossard, and Ben White are also unavailable due to injuries .
New signing Eberechi Eze is expected to make his debut and could play a pivotal role in the midfield.
Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli are likely to start in place of the injured forwards .
Despite Ødegaard’s injury, manager Mikel Arteta is hopeful he might still play.
If not, the captaincy could be handed to another senior player, though no official confirmation has been made .
Tactical Preview
How Liverpool Might Set Up (Formation & Strategy)
Liverpool under Arne Slot are expected to line up in a 4-3-3 (or 4-2-3-1 out of possession), emphasizing high pressing, quick transitions, and attacking freedom.
Slot prioritizes attack, with Liverpool scoring in 39 of their last 40 Premier League matches — demonstrating a high-octane style, even at the expense of defensive solidity.
Despite their offensive prowess, Liverpool have shown defensive vulnerabilities, especially from transitions and set-pieces.
In midfield, Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch (or Szoboszlai rotating in) are crucial in linking play and initiating attacks — though their advanced positioning can leave gaps at the back.
How Arsenal Might Counter (Formation & Defensive Strategy)
- Arsenal under Arteta typically deploy a 4-3-3 (or 4-2-3-1) focused on possession-based control, fluid passing, and creating overloads, particularly from wide areas.
They are also well-drilled defensively, capable of both pressing high or falling into aggressive low blocks when needed, plus they’re strong at set-pieces.
Their midfield depth, including the highly defensive-minded Martin Zubimendi, helps Arsenal control transitions and slow Liverpool’s pace.
With injuries to key players, Arsenal may prioritize tactical discipline over flair, especially through Eze on his debut.
Key Player Battles to Watch
- Eberechi Eze vs Liverpool’s makeshift full-backs: Eze’s creativity and ability to exploit space make him a serious threat on Arsenal’s left, particularly if Szoboszlai or Bradley are pulled wide defensively.
- Viktor Gyökeres vs Ibrahima Konaté: Gyökeres has momentum with goals already, and his move inside from the flank could punish Liverpool’s defensive hesitation.
- Liverpool’s pressing trio (Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo) vs Arsenal midfield: Liverpool’s attackers will be testing Arsenal’s compact structure—if Wirtz adapts, his interplay could unlock the defense; if not, disjointed attacks may falter.
Liverpool bring fearless attacking intent with high pressing and fluid fronts, while Arsenal aim to harness structure, control, and disciplined transitions.
The game could turn on how well Eze exploits space, whether Gyökeres wins his duel with Konaté, and if Liverpool can patch their defensive gaps.
Predictions & Key Factors
This match feels like one of those where the midfield battle decides everything.
If Liverpool’s press clicks, they could pin Arsenal back and create chaos up front.
But Arsenal have the players to stay calm on the ball and hit back with quick transitions.
The finishing will be massive.
Both teams are creating plenty of chances this season, but whoever is more ruthless in front of goal could walk away with the points.
As for a scoreline? Hard to call. It has all the makings of a thriller—maybe a 2–2 draw or a narrow 3–2 win either way.
One moment of brilliance, or a single mistake, could decide it.
What Fans Are Saying
“The front 3 will all be new signings. I hope they work together and get us the 3 points.” – Liquid Gooner
“No excuses for Gooners on Sunday and for the season, you are favourites for all competitions.” – Bob
“Ekitike will continue Diogo jota legacy on Sunday.” – Pas Kwesi
