Arsenal will host Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium on Thursday evening in an important Premier League match that could affect the title race.
The league leaders come into this game in great form, while the reigning champions are under pressure after struggling recently. With 17 matches left, Arsenal could stretch their lead to 17 points with another win at home.
Arsenal Riding Momentum at the Perfect Time
Mikel Arteta’s team kicked off the new year strongly, coming back from a rough start to beat Bournemouth 3-2 in a thrilling match. Declan Rice was key, scoring two important goals in a resilient team effort.
That win brought Arsenal's streak to seven matches across all competitions, including five straight in the Premier League. While not all those victories have been easy, the Gunners have shown what it takes to be title contenders: the ability to get results even when they are not at their best.
Liverpool Searching for Stability
Liverpool arrives in London after drawing their last two league matches against Leeds United and Fulham, which has shaken the confidence of their fans. A late equalizer allowed at Craven Cottage revealed some defensive problems that have shown up in Arne Slot’s team in recent weeks.
Even though the Reds are unbeaten in their last nine matches across all competitions, the points they've dropped lately have raised concerns that earlier successes might have hidden more serious issues.
Head-to-Head History Favors the Hosts
Liverpool narrowly defeated Arsenal 1-0 at Anfield earlier this season, but their recent history at the Emirates is less positive. The Merseyside club has not won in their last three visits to North London, and another loss could significantly harm their title hopes
Arsenal Predicted Lineup (4-3-3)
Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapié; Ødegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Gyökeres, Trossard
Liverpool Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)
Alisson; Bradley, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Szoboszlai, Wirtz, Jones; Gakpo
