Liverpool’s hectic run of fixtures continues with a difficult Premier League trip to Arsenal on Thursday, a game that could carry major consequences for both sides. At the start of the season, this fixture was widely expected to be a defining battle in the title race. Liverpool arrived as defending champions, while Arsenal, who finished second last term, were tipped to challenge strongly once again.
The reality has been different. Liverpool’s title defence has lacked fluency and control, with points dropped in half of their 20 league matches so far. Their most recent setback came in a 2–2 draw away at Fulham, another performance that raised questions about their consistency. Arsenal, meanwhile, have been far more efficient, slipping up just five times and opening up a six-point lead at the top of the table.
Although Liverpool are unbeaten in nine matches across all competitions, supporters have been left frustrated by the style of football on display. Chances have been harder to come by under Arne Slot, while defensive weaknesses from set-pieces have remained a concern. Against an Arsenal side that thrives in dead-ball situations, Liverpool will need close to a perfect performance, something that could be made harder by several potential absences.
Mo Salah – Out
Mo Salah will miss the Arsenal clash as he is away on international duty with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations. His absence removes Liverpool’s most reliable attacking threat and a player capable of changing games in moments. If Egypt reach the final, Salah could be sidelined for another two weeks.
Alexander Isak – Out
Alexander Isak is expected to be unavailable after suffering a broken leg while scoring in Liverpool’s 2–1 victory over Tottenham last month. The striker, a £125 million British-record signing, is facing a spell on the sidelines that could last up to three months, leaving Liverpool short of firepower.
Wataru Endo – Out
Wataru Endo continues to recover from an ankle injury and is not close to a return. Slot recently confirmed that the midfielder remains some way from match fitness, ruling him out of the trip to the Emirates.
Giovanni Leoni – Out
Giovanni Leoni is set to miss the remainder of the season after sustaining an ACL injury on his Liverpool debut in September. His absence further reduces Liverpool’s defensive depth.
Hugo Ekitike – Doubt
Hugo Ekitike remains in doubt due to a hamstring issue that kept him out against Fulham. Although he travelled with the squad, he was not risked, and his availability for Arsenal remains uncertain.
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