Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta may have to face a critical league match against Liverpool without three key players due to injuries. This upcoming clash is pivotal, as a win for Liverpool would widen their lead over Arsenal to seven points in the title race.
Arne Slot’s Liverpool arrives at the Emirates Stadium in strong form, having recorded an impressive start to the 2024/25 season, with only a single 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest blemishing their record. This performance boosts their confidence as they aim to maintain their top position in the Premier League.
On the other hand, Arsenal is grappling with a significant injury issue, potentially missing Bukayo Saka, Riccardo Calafiori, and Jurrien Timber for the weekend match. The absences of Calafiori and Timber were expected, particularly with Calafiori still recovering from a knee injury sustained during a Champions League win against Shakhtar Donetsk. Reports from Sky Sports indicate that all three players missed training sessions in preparation for Sunday’s crucial encounter.
There is some positive news, as Italian reports, supported by CaughtOffside, suggest that Calafiori’s knee injury may not be as serious as first thought, though it’s unlikely he will be fit in time for the Liverpool match. Timber, who was left out of the Netherlands squad during the international break and also missed a recent European fixture, has a slim chance of playing. Meanwhile, Saka seems to be struggling with a hamstring injury, casting doubt on his availability for the title clash.
Liverpool is also dealing with injuries, with five players confirmed out for the weekend. First-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker is sidelined with a hamstring issue and is expected to be unavailable for several weeks, including the upcoming cup match against Brighton. Manager Arne Slot noted that while Alisson’s recovery is progressing, he is not yet close to returning.
Midfielder Harvey Elliott, who fractured his foot earlier this season, is targeting a November return. Initially hopeful of resuming training before the match against Chelsea, his comeback will now take longer than anticipated.
Portuguese forward Diogo Jota, who suffered upper-body bruising in a 2-1 win over Chelsea, will also miss the trip to north London, allowing Darwin Nunez to take the lead in the attack.
Federico Chiesa may have the opportunity to train on Friday, which could lead to his involvement on Sunday. Additionally, Conor Bradley might return to team training by Saturday, depending on his recovery progress.
Both teams will enter this high-stakes match with depleted lineups, presenting a crucial test of depth and resilience. For Arsenal, the possible absence of Saka, Calafiori, and Timber is a major challenge against Liverpool’s strong performance. Conversely, Liverpool’s injury issues, particularly Alisson’s absence, could affect their defensive solidity.
The outcome of this match could significantly influence the title race, as Arsenal aims to close the gap while Liverpool seeks to solidify their lead at the top of the Premier League.