Arsenal is gearing up for a crucial clash with Liverpool this weekend, a match that could significantly impact the Premier League title race. The Gunners are under pressure to secure a victory to avoid falling further behind in the standings, as a Liverpool win would extend the gap to seven points at the top.
Mikel Arteta’s side has struggled with consistency in the league this season, largely due to the absence of several key players through injuries. Fans have eagerly anticipated the return of stars like Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber, hoping their reinforcements would provide a much-needed boost ahead of such a pivotal game.
However, a report from Football Insider suggests that Arsenal will have to cope without these key figures for the Liverpool match. Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber, both considered integral to the team’s setup, are not expected to recover in time. The Gunners have also been dealt further blows with the unavailability of Martin Odegaard, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Riccardo Calafiori. The Italian defender suffered an injury in their most recent fixture, ruling him out for at least this upcoming game.
These injury concerns present a significant challenge for Arteta, who will need to rely on the depth of his squad to navigate this difficult period.
Despite the setbacks, Arsenal faces a “do or die” scenario against Liverpool, and nothing short of a win would satisfy their ambitions of staying in the title race. The upcoming encounter is not only crucial for points but also as a test of the team’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure with a depleted squad.
Arteta’s tactical approach and team selection will be closely scrutinized, as Arsenal looks to close the gap on Liverpool and reinforce their title credentials.
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With so many games coming quick and fast , the gaffer needs to be able to look at his bench for reinforcement.
The gaffer seems not to trust his players, yes he prefer to start his strongest side.
We should be aiming to wrestling away one of those big ears mug this season and I know there are those up to the likes of the European league cup , but I don’t think we can dismiss any chance for seliverware
Selections and tactics will be crucial against Liverpool. Also, the energy and intensity needs to be constant for 90 minutes, not the typical drop off we have seen lately.
Sunday will be a real test for Arteta; selections from his bench, and tactics adjusted for players not typically starting games for him. He really needs to show the tactician he is, a real test for him.
It seems that Liverpool will be missing players as well so I guess it will come down to squad quality and strength.
I suspect that Liverpool could well be Arsenal’s toughest test to date (including City away). After two very disappointing performances, first in the EPL and then in the CL, Arteta will need to do something “over and above” to ensure a far more positive approach from his team in the Liverpool game. That includes better discipline on the pitch and making much of the chances that come their way (which are likely to be limited anyway).