Liverpool travels to the Emirates in London to face Arsenal on Thursday, with Mikel Arteta's players holding a commanding 14-point advantage over the Merseyside club
Tom Canton Arsenal Reporter 16:17, 08 Jan 2026Updated 16:17, 08 Jan 2026

Arsenal is set to face off against Liverpool in a Premier League clash at the Emirates on Thursday, seeking to avenge its earlier defeat at Anfield this season.
While some may have anticipated this match as a title-deciding encounter, for Arsenal, it might be. For Arne Slot's squad, however, it's a different story. Currently trailing the Gunners by 14 points, the Reds have had a surprisingly tough season despite an investment of more than $500 million during the summer transfer window.
Alexander Isak will not be participating, and Hugo Ekitike remains uncertain due to injury. Mikel Arteta, meanwhile, will have access to some stars who were unavailable earlier in the campaign. Speaking of Arsenal, it's claimed the Gunners are interested in Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, who is also a target for Liverpool.
READ MORE: Michael Owen gives blunt assessment on Cody Gakpo credentials ahead of Arsenal gameREAD MORE: Liverpool predicted line-up vs Arsenal as Arne Slot set to make Jeremie Frimpong decisionArteta has some significant decisions to make regarding the team line-up for Thursday's game, with the added advantage of an extra day's preparation and having rested some players in the victory over Bournemouth. Here is Liverpool.com's predicted Arsenal lineup for the big game...
David Raya: The Spanish goalkeeper was bested by a remarkable Dominik Szoboszlai free-kick at Anfield, seemingly the only way he could be defeated, and hopes are high among Arsenal fans for a clean sheet come Thursday.
Jurrien Timber: Who the Dutchman will be up against depends on Ekitike's availability; it could be his fellow countryman Cody Gakpo, possibly Florian Wirtz, or even another contender.

William Saliba: The Frenchman lasted only a few minutes in the previous fixture due to an ankle issue. Fortunately for Arsenal, he is fit for selection this time around.
Gabriel: The Brazilian will be aiming for another standout performance following his heroics against Bournemouth. A goal against the Reds would extend his impressive form since returning to action, with two goals already netted against Villa and Bournemouth.
Piero Hincapie: With Riccardo Calafiori still sidelined, it seems logical that Piero Hincapie gets the nod for this match, especially given Mikel Arteta's commendation of the defender's performances in the Italian's absence.
Martin Zubimendi: The Spaniard delivered another stellar performance at the weekend, regaining possession 12 times, the highest tally by any player in a single Arsenal game this season.
Declan Rice: Rice was the star of the show with his brace in the last match, and his return to full fitness after an injury scare is a significant boost for Arsenal for such a high-stakes game.
Martin Odegaard: Currently the team's most in-form player with three goal contributions in as many games, Arsenal's captain is back to his commanding best.
Bukayo Saka: Despite being rested against Bournemouth, Saka still managed to come off the bench and provide an assist. He certainly relishes this fixture.
Viktor Gyokeres: If there's ever a time for Gyokeres to break his goal drought, this match presents one of the best opportunities. Liverpool will hope that drought continues.
Leandro Trossard: A contender for player of the season and, like Saka, someone who enjoyed some rest at the weekend, the Belgian returns to the pitch with his energy levels somewhat replenished.

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