Arne Slot’s Liverpool are flying high with 11 wins in 12 outings across competitions. They showed sheer control and composure against RB Leipzig on Wednesday night to clinch a 1-0 victory, but the toughest test to date awaits the Dutchman on Sunday evening when his men clash heads with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
The runners-up over the past two seasons and a genuine title contender this term, the Gunners suffered a shocking defeat against Bournemouth last weekend. However, they bounced back in Europe with a win over Shakhtar Donetsk, and the midweek result should boost their confidence ahead of hosting the Premier League rivals in an electrifying contest.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Liverpool Lineup To Face Arsenal
Defence
Liverpool are blessed to have a ‘number two’ of Caoimhin Kelleher’s calibre. The Irishman has proven his worth whenever he got opportunities in the wake of Alisson Becker’s injury absence, and his abilities would be tested once again as he is set to keep his place between the sticks against Mikel Arteta’s army.
Trent Alexander-Arnold must balance his game between attack and defence while featuring as a right fullback. Ibrahima Konate and skipper Virgil van Dijk have been exquisite so far as the central defensive pairing. Also, the gaffer is expected to rely on veteran Andrew Robertson over Kostas Tsimikas for his experience and equanimity down the left-hand side. Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah should be among the substitutes to cover for the first-team defenders.
Midfield
Ryan Gravenberch has been a revelation deep down the midfield. He has impressed as a ‘number six’, but the presence of Alexis Mac Allister as the ‘double pivot’ has allowed him more privilege and freedom in the centre of the pitch.
Despite injuries to Federico Chiesa and Harvey Elliott, Slot has ample depth and quality high up the midfield. Mohamed Salah is still unparalleled from the right having scored 7 goals and laid on 7 more in 12 appearances. But the Dutch boss might opt for Luis Diaz on the left after Cody Gakpo featured for the full 90 minutes in Leipzig. Meanwhile, Dominik Szoboszlai could make way for Curtis Jones following the latter’s match-winning performance against Chelsea.
Attack
Diogo Jota is ruled out for the Emirates clash leaving the Reds with Darwin Nunez as the only available ‘number 9’ option. The Portuguese’s absence would be a significant blow, but the Uruguayan is more than capable of causing chaos if he grabs his opportunities while spearheading the attack.
