Arsenal vs Liverpool: Predicted XI, Injury News & How to Watch

Arsenal host reigning champions Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium on Thursday, January 8, 2026, with kick-off at 20:00 GMT. Broadcast live on Sky Sports in the UK, this Premier League blockbuster pits the league leaders against the faltering defending champions, refereed by Anthony Taylor with John Brooks on VAR.[3][4][5][7]

Match Context & Form

Arsenal top the table, six points clear of Manchester City and Aston Villa, unbeaten at home this season (14 wins from 15), and winners of their last five league games despite a rocky start against Bournemouth. They've conceded just 14 goals, half of Liverpool's 28, and seek revenge for a fluke 1-0 loss at Anfield via Dominic Szoboszlai's free-kick— one of only two defeats.[3][4][5]

Liverpool, unbeaten in nine (but four draws in last seven), trail by 14 points and fight for top four. Their attack is depleted without strikers Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak, plus Mohamed Salah at AFCON, relying on a makeshift front line of Wirtz, Jones, and Gakpo.[2][3][4][5]

Injury News & Predicted Lineups

Arsenal near full strength: Riccardo Calafiori, Cristhian Mosquera, and Max Dowman out. Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard return to start; Piero Hincapie likely at left-back over Myles Lewis-Skelly. Midfield stars Martin Odegaard (regaining form), Declan Rice (world-class), and Mikel Merino/Zubimendi anchor. Predicted XI (4-3-3): Raya; Saliba, Gabriel, Zubimendi, Hincapie; Odegaard, Rice, Merino; Saka, Gyokeres, Trossard.[5][6]

Liverpool missing key attackers; Milos Kerkez may replace Andy Robertson for pace against Saka. Midfield: Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Dominik Szoboszlai to track back. Predicted setup adapts to absences.[6]

Predictions & Odds

Arsenal favorites (8/15 to win; Liverpool 4/1, draw 13/5). Forecasts: Arsenal 3-1[2], 2-0[4], or narrow 2-1[5]—leveraging home form, Liverpool's woes, and momentum to extend their lead.[2][4][5]