Liverpool’s Predicted XI vs Arsenal as Hugo Ekitike Decision Made Amid Injury Uncertainty

Liverpool face a pivotal Premier League clash against league leaders Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Thursday, January 8, 2026, with manager Arne Slot grappling with key injury doubts. The Reds, aiming to challenge Arsenal's 17-point lead, arrive on an impressive unbeaten run but are hampered by absences including Mohamed Salah (AFCON), Alexander Isak (leg injury), Giovanni Leoni (ACL), and Wataru Endo (ankle).[1][2]

Hugo Ekitike's Fitness in Focus

The biggest question mark hangs over striker Hugo Ekitike, who missed the recent 1-1 draw at Fulham due to a muscular thigh issue described as more than just delayed onset muscle soreness. Slot remains optimistic, stating Ekitike "is not going to be out for long," but as of Wednesday, the Frenchman has not trained with the squad, casting significant doubt on his availability. Without him, Cody Gakpo is primed to lead the line after scoring against Fulham.[1][2][4]

Predicted Liverpool XI (4-3-3)

• Alisson Becker (GK)
• Conor Bradley (RB)
• Ibrahima Konaté (CB)
• Virgil van Dijk (CB)
• Milos Kerkez or Andrew Robertson (LB)
• Alexis Mac Allister (CM)
• Ryan Gravenberch (CM)
• Dominik Szoboszlai (CM)
• Florian Wirtz (LW, managing hamstring but expected to play)
• Cody Gakpo (ST)
• Jeremie Frimpong or Curtis Jones (RW)

Slot may stick close to the Fulham lineup, with Frimpong offering versatility on the right flank or back. Wirtz, fresh off a goal, adds creativity despite not being at full fitness.[1][2][3]

Arsenal's Strong Lineup

Mikel Arteta's Gunners boast depth, with Bukayo Saka eyeing history as the first Arsenal player to score in four straight league home games vs Liverpool. Predicted XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Odegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Gyokeres, Trossard.[1][4]

This blockbuster could see Arsenal extend their dominance, but Liverpool's resilience in big games offers hope amid the uncertainty.[1][2]

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