Independent

Arsenal vs Liverpool live: Reds weathering storm as Gunners look to make Premier League title statement

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Arsenal and Liverpool meet at the Emirates in a highly anticipated Premier League clash with major implications for the title race. Arsenal enter the game as league leaders on a five-match winning run, having edged Bournemouth 3-2 in their previous outing thanks to a brace from Declan Rice. That victory underlined Mikel Arteta’s side as the division’s form team, recovering impressively since a setback against Aston Villa at the start of December.



Liverpool arrive as reigning champions but under growing pressure. Arne Slot’s side are unbeaten in eight league matches, yet momentum has stalled after consecutive draws against Fulham and Leeds. A dramatic stoppage-time equaliser from Harrison Reed for Fulham epitomised Liverpool’s recent frustrations and left them 14 points adrift of Arsenal in the table heading into this fixture. With the gap so large, Slot is seeking a statement result to revive their title defence.

Historically, recent meetings between the clubs have been tight: four of the last six league encounters have finished level, with one win each for Arsenal and Liverpool in the other two games. That pattern, combined with Liverpool’s resilient form, suggests another finely balanced contest despite Arsenal’s current superiority in the standings.

Team news adds further intrigue. Liverpool face doubts over Hugo Ekitike due to a hamstring problem, while Alexander Isak remains a long‑term absentee and Mohamed Salah is still away on international duty with Egypt. Arsenal, meanwhile, appear settled and confident, boosted by home advantage and their strong recent run.

Kick-off is scheduled for 8pm GMT at the Emirates Stadium, with live coverage building up to what is billed as a blockbuster meeting between the league leaders and the champions. The central question is whether Arsenal can reinforce their title credentials or Liverpool can halt their surge and breathe life back into their own campaign.