Arsenal team vs Liverpool confirmed as Bukayo Saka decision made amid 2 changes

Arsenal’s confirmed team to face Liverpool features a key call on Bukayo Saka, who returns to the starting XI after being benched in the previous game. Mikel Arteta sticks with his preferred 4-3-3 shape and names his strongest available side, underlining the significance of this top-of-the-table clash at the Emirates.

In goal, David Raya continues as first choice, protected by a settled back four. William Saliba and Gabriel line up at center-back, with Jurriën Timber on the right and January signing Piero Hincapié again trusted at left-back. This unit has underpinned Arsenal’s excellent defensive record and is unchanged to preserve cohesion.

In midfield, Arteta keeps faith with his main trio. Captain Martin Ødegaard provides creativity and pressing from the right-sided number eight role, while marquee signing Martín Zubimendi anchors the midfield. Declan Rice, passed fit and in outstanding form after a brace against Bournemouth, completes the engine room on the left, giving Arsenal both ball-winning power and a goal threat from deep.

In attack, the main talking point is Saka’s inclusion from the start on the right wing after his recent rest. Through the middle, summer recruit Viktor Gyökeres leads the line, offering physical presence and running in behind. On the left, Leandro Trossard is preferred for his movement and technical quality, edging out alternative options and giving Arsenal a fluid, interchanging front three.

The article highlights that only minor fitness issues and a small absentee list shaped Arteta’s choices, allowing him to make just two changes from the weekend: Saka’s return to the XI and a tweak further forward. Overall, Arsenal field a near full-strength side designed to maintain their home dominance and take advantage of a Liverpool team missing several key players.