Gameweek nine of the 2024-25 Premier League season will conclude with an anticipated clash between Arsenal and Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Both teams enter this fixture with high stakes, with Arsenal looking to reclaim dominance at home and Liverpool eyeing continued momentum at the top of the table.
Arsenal Recent Form
Arsenal recently suffered a rare away loss to Bournemouth, ending a 12-game unbeaten run in the Premier League. Despite the setback, the Gunners are on a five-game winning streak at the Emirates Stadium, reflecting a formidable home advantage.
However, they’ve had recent struggles without key players, including William Saliba, as their 45% win rate without him suggests a challenging defensive gap to fill.
Injury and Team News
Manager Mikel Arteta faces multiple defensive issues with Saliba suspended, Takehiro Tomiyasu suffering a fresh knee injury, and Kieran Tierney out.
Riccardo Calafiori’s uncertain fitness may also force a reshuffle in the lineup. Meanwhile, Bukayo Saka’s availability remains in question, although he may be close to returning from a hamstring injury.
Last Arsenal Lineup
Here is how Arsenal lined up for their last match:
Liverpool Recent Form
Liverpool have been in sensational form, winning their last eight games in all competitions. Manager Arne Slot’s squad has continued to solidify their status as title contenders with a resilient defence that has allowed just three goals so far. Slot’s 100% away win record remains unblemished, making Liverpool an intimidating visitor for Arsenal’s defence.
Injury and Team News
Liverpool’s key absence is goalkeeper Alisson Becker, replaced by Caoimhin Kelleher, who delivered a solid performance against Leipzig. Diogo Jota’s participation remains doubtful following a recent injury, meaning Darwin Nunez may lead the attack alongside Mohamed Salah. Cody Gakpo and Luis Diaz compete for a starting position on the left flank.
Last Liverpool Lineup
Here is how Liverpool lined up for their last match:
Arsenal vs Liverpool - Who is the Referee and VAR?
The officiating team for Sunday’s clash includes:
Referee: Anthony Taylor.
Assistants: Gary Beswick, Adam Nunn.
Fourth official: Sam Barrott.
VAR: Michael Salisbury.
Assistant VAR: Darren Cann.
Arsenal Player to Watch
Bukayo Saka and his potential return brings hope for a creative spark in Arsenal’s attack. If fit, his playmaking and versatility can significantly impact the Gunners' chances to break down Liverpool’s robust defence.
Liverpool Player to Watch
Mohamed Salah remains Liverpool’s key threat, having been pivotal in recent matches with his precision and playmaking. His penalty expertise and goal-scoring form will challenge Arsenal’s backline, especially in Saliba’s absence.
Prediction
This clash is likely to be tightly contested, with both defences capable of neutralising high-powered offences. A low-scoring draw could be on the cards, given Arsenal’s recent creativity issues and Liverpool’s strong away record.
Our Prediction: Arsenal 1 - 1 Liverpool
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Back a Draw: With two strong defences, a draw is a realistic outcome at good value.
Tip 2
Under 2.5 Goals: Both teams may focus on securing defensive solidity rather than an all-out attacking approach.
Tip 3
Anytime Goalscorer - Salah: Salah’s consistency from the penalty spot and recent form make him a reliable option for scoring.
