Saka's Return Sparks Arsenal as Titans Clash with Liverpool in Epic Showdown
Arsenal's championship aspirations in the Premier League face their biggest examination as defending champions Liverpool make the trip to the Emirates Stadium.
The North London side have suffered defeat in only two fixtures across all tournaments this campaign, with one of those losses coming at Anfield in August, yet they enter this midweek clash against Liverpool as clear betting favorites.
Mikel Arteta's squad are in exceptional form currently, having secured victory in their last five Premier League encounters and demonstrated their character by overcoming Bournemouth over the weekend—even while performing below their typical level.
Arne Slot's unpredictable Liverpool side will pose difficulties for Arsenal due to the talent within their roster, but the Gunners are full of belief as they pursue another impressive victory on home ground.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs. Liverpool (4-3-3)
GK: David Raya—Raya anticipates a demanding evening facing Liverpool but could experience a calmer match than anticipated. The Reds are experiencing difficulties in attack and have shown limited offensive creativity in their recent performances.
RB: Jurriën Timber—Liverpool have shown reduced energy along their left wing following Luis Díaz's exit, though Timber will stay alert to dangers from compatriot Cody Gakpo or Florian Wirtz.
CB: William Saliba—Saliba appreciates having his favored defensive partner back in action, and his evening may be simplified by Hugo Ekitiké's possible unavailability.
CB: Gabriel—Considering Liverpool's struggles defending set plays, Gabriel will be anticipating Thursday's encounter eagerly. He has found the net in consecutive matches since returning to the lineup and will be Arsenal's primary target from corners, free kicks and throw-ins.
LB: Piero Hincapié—With Riccardo Calafiori sidelined through injury, Hincapié will again feature at left-back, and the former Liverpool target has adjusted to Premier League football impressively. He'll be thankful to avoid facing Mohamed Salah, who remains at the Africa Cup of Nations.
CM: Martin Ødegaard—Arsenal's captain has rediscovered his playmaking excellence in recent fixtures and is once again orchestrating play from midfield. The Norwegian's passing range could prove decisive in North London.
CM: Martín Zubimendi—Considering Zubimendi's outstanding start to his Arsenal journey, Liverpool will feel even more disappointed that the Spanish midfielder rejected their advances in 2024. He frequently operates behind the more prominent Ødegaard and Declan Rice, yet remains equally vital to Arsenal's achievements.
CM: Declan Rice—Rice's ability to surge into the penalty area was evident against Bournemouth as he delivered two clinical strikes to secure a vital win for the Gunners. The England international consistently rises to meet important challenges.
RW: Bukayo Saka—Saka was given a breather against Bournemouth, beginning as a substitute, but still managed to provide an assist when introduced. He'll be optimistic about his prospects against Liverpool's summer acquisition Milos Kerkez.
ST: Viktor Gyökeres—Arsenal require greater output from Gyökeres, who may be the sole player currently falling short of expectations in their roster. He faces the possibility of losing his starting position to Gabriel Jesus and the returning Kai Havertz without rapid improvement.
LW: Leandro Trossard—Trossard consistently delivers important goals in significant fixtures, and it wouldn't be shocking to see him impact Thursday's match. The Belgian has actually recorded more league goals and assists than Saka this campaign.
