Arsenal Set to Unleash Eze in Liverpool Clash as Star Duo Saka and Odegaard Ruled Out
Arsenal has the opportunity to make an early statement in the Premier League title race by defeating defending champions Liverpool at Anfield this Sunday.
Overcoming the Reds will present a formidable test, particularly considering Arsenal's winless streak in league matches at Anfield stretching back to 2012, though Liverpool's vulnerable defense may provide hope. The Gunners have secured shutouts in both their season openers and rediscovered their scoring touch with an impressive five-goal performance against Leeds United in their previous outing.
Arsenal must navigate without star winger Bukayo Saka due to the injury he picked up against Leeds, while captain Martin Ødegaard remains questionable after also suffering an injury setback last weekend.
Here's how Mikel Arteta might set up his team without these two crucial playmakers.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs. Liverpool (4-2-3-1)
GK: David Raya—Raya has delivered outstanding stops in Arsenal's opening two fixtures, showcasing a particularly brilliant performance at Old Trafford in the season opener. He faces a rigorous examination against Liverpool's diverse attacking options.
RB: Jurriën Timber—Two strikes, one assist and a clean sheet had Arsenal supporters and Fantasy Premier League participants rejoicing last weekend. Timber will face fellow Dutchman Cody Gakpo at Anfield in a significantly tougher assessment of his abilities.
CB: William Saliba—A third straight shutout appears challenging for Arsenal considering Liverpool has found the net seven times in their opening fixtures, though anything remains achievable with Saliba anchoring the backline.
CB: Gabriel—Gabriel's comeback has certainly strengthened Arsenal's defensive confidence. The Brazilian could present a significant danger from dead-ball situations at Anfield, a strategy Arsenal frequently utilize and through which Newcastle found success against Liverpool on Monday evening.
LB: Riccardo Calafiori—Arsenal's wing-backs have displayed excellent offensive form early this season, with Calafiori also contributing one goal and two assists. Nevertheless, he faces the challenging assignment of containing Mohamed Salah on Sunday.
DM: Martín Zubimendi—Zubimendi may not receive the warmest reception at Anfield considering his rejection of Liverpool's approach last summer. He'll be motivated to quiet the home supporters with a calm and commanding midfield performance.
DM: Declan Rice—Rice will offer box-to-box dynamism for Arsenal and proves vital in set-piece delivery. His reliability is exceptional and he never falters on big occasions.
RW: Noni Madueke—With Saka unavailable, Madueke might secure a consecutive start—this time operating from the right flank. He'll be determined to make his mark at Anfield against Milos Kerkez, who has yet to establish himself in Liverpool colors.
AM: Eberechi Eze—If Ødegaard remains absent, Eze could make his bow in an attacking midfield position with a slight tactical adjustment for the Gunners. This could serve as either a trial by fire for the England international or the ideal platform to impress his new supporters.
LW: Gabriel Martinelli—Forward line injuries suggest Martinelli should maintain his position for now, and he boasts an impressive history against Liverpool. He's scored more times against the Reds than any other opponent—six goals in 12 encounters—and found the net in this same matchup last season.
ST: Viktor Gyökeres—The backlash against Gyökeres following his debut was far too hasty, and the Swedish striker answered his critics with a double against Leeds in the last match. He'll be eager to unsettle a Liverpool defense that has appeared unsettled this campaign.
