Thierry Henry's comments on Liverpool speak volumes about Arsenal contrast

Thierry Henry's remarks about feeling "exhausted" whilst watching Liverpool's relentless intensity is in stark contrast to Emmanuel Petit's damning assessment of Mikel Arteta's "boring" Arsenal side.

Speaking in 2021 after the Reds' Premier League title win, Henry said: "The intensity, the rhythm that you have in the Premier League, it's very high. You see, when you watch Liverpool, even just watching them, you get tired.

"They move so quickly. When you go to Manchester City, before you have even looked up, there is pressing on you. If you control the ball, there are already three guys around you. The Premier League's intensity is immense."

Arne Slot has maintained the same high-octane approach that Jurgen Klopp established - and his side's persistence until the final whistle is reaping rewards. Six of their eight second-half strikes this campaign have come after the 87th minute.

This relentlessness could prove decisive against title rivals Arsenal, who faced criticism from former midfielder Petit following their 1-1 draw with Manchester City. The ex-Gunner told OLBG: "I was quite bored in the first half and I was very frustrated when they went back to the dressing room.

"I was expecting a strong reaction from the Gunners in the second half and this is exactly what they did. I was wondering if they could find the DNA of the club.

"Being free in attack, having good fluidity between movements and an understanding with the players."

Praising their opponents, Petit added: "You have to give credit to Manchester City as well because I think they defended very well. Tactically, it was a strong performance, they showed composure and character.

"They were very aggressive from the first minute until the end. A point against City was a fair result – but I had this taste in my mouth thinking that it could have been better."

Arteta remains in pursuit of his maiden Premier League triumph in north London, something that Slot achieved on Merseyside at the first attempt.

With five points dividing the teams at the summit, the Gunners must raise their standards if they wish to compete for the Premier League title - or hope that the Reds allow their performance levels to slip.

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