Liverpool vs Arsenal Preview

• Draw or Liverpool to win
• Both teams to score

The champagne might still be flowing at Anfield, but Liverpool’s post-title-winning glow took a minor hit last weekend with a 3-1 defeat at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea. It was only the Reds’ third Premier League loss of the season, and while the result did little to dent their dominance at the summit, the news that followed hit harder. Club stalwart Trent Alexander-Arnold confirmed he will leave the club this summer, ending months of speculation and casting a bittersweet note over the celebrations.

While opinions were divided on the timing and nature of Alexander-Arnold’s decision, fans will be eager to return their focus to the pitch. A tenth straight domestic home victory would not only help put the Chelsea loss behind them but also reaffirm their stronghold at Anfield, where they’ve been virtually untouchable all season. However, standing in their way is Arsenal, a side with plenty to prove and a recent upper hand in this fixture, having gone unbeaten in their last five Premier League meetings with Liverpool (W2, D3).

Anfield Fortress vs Arsenal’s Road Struggles

Historically, Arsenal have struggled at Anfield, with their last league win at this famous venue coming back in September 2012. A certain Mikel Arteta was on the pitch that day for the Gunners and will now look to guide his side to a rare success in the red half of Merseyside. Since that victory, Arsenal have drawn four and lost seven of their subsequent league visits, often being undone by Liverpool’s early intensity and Anfield’s unique atmosphere.

That said, Arsenal come into this clash with their own motivations. Sitting in second place and aiming to fend off challenges from Manchester City and Newcastle for the runners-up spot, a win at Anfield would be a massive step in confirming their third consecutive second-place finish in the Premier League. It would also serve as a morale-boosting response to what has been a painful fortnight for the North Londoners.

Champions League Heartbreak and Domestic Dip

A 3-1 aggregate defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League semi-final ended Arsenal’s dream of reaching the final for the first time since 2006. Sandwiched between those losses was a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth, a match in which they had taken the lead. It was a stark reminder of one of their ongoing issues – holding onto leads. The Gunners have now dropped 21 points from winning positions this season, equalling their worst-ever tally in a single Premier League campaign.

This mini-crisis of form—three consecutive defeats in all competitions—marks just the third time Arsenal have endured such a run under Arteta. With their league standing now under pressure, the Gunners will need to rediscover their resilience quickly if they want to end the season strongly and take some positivity into the summer.

Tactical Focus and Key Duels

Liverpool’s defensive frailties were exposed against Chelsea, particularly on the flanks where Alexander-Arnold’s absence was felt. Arsenal could look to exploit these areas with the pace and movement of Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka, the latter of whom has scored four goals and received two yellow cards across his last five league appearances against Liverpool.

The midfield battle will also be crucial. With Alexander-Arnold out and Alexis Mac Allister showing mixed form of late, Arsenal’s trio of Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard, and Jorginho may look to take control early. Meanwhile, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk will be crucial in marshalling the backline, particularly against Arsenal’s runners in behind.

Van Dijk is set to mark his 300th Premier League appearance, becoming just the fourth Dutchman to reach that milestone. He scored in the reverse fixture earlier this season, and although his recent goals have come late in games (80th minute or later), he remains a threat from set pieces.

Head-to-Head Trends and Stats

• Arsenal are unbeaten in their last five Premier League matches against Liverpool (W2, D3).
• However, the Gunners have not won a league game at Anfield since 2012.
• Liverpool have won nine consecutive domestic home matches ahead of this fixture.
• Arsenal have lost their last three competitive matches – the first such run since 2020.
• At least two goals have been scored before half-time in each of the last five Premier League H2Hs.

Prediction

Both sides have plenty to play for, but with Liverpool’s phenomenal home form and Arsenal’s recent dip, the edge may lie with the hosts. That said, Arsenal have shown they can frustrate Liverpool in recent meetings, so expect a tightly contested match.

Prediction: Liverpool 2-2 Arsenal

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Liverpool v Arsenal, 2024/25 | Premier League