This Sunday’s Premier League clash at Anfield between Liverpool and Arsenal promises to be one of the early defining moments of the season.
Both sides have maximum points from their opening two games, but their approaches could not be more different. Liverpool have scored seven goals already but looked fragile at the back, conceding four. Arsenal, meanwhile, boast two clean sheets and a revamped attacking unit that dismantled Leeds United 5-0 last week.
For Arsenal, new signing Viktor Gyökeres has provided the “number nine” presence they have long lacked, scoring twice against Leeds. His physicality and direct play will be a major test for a Liverpool defence that struggled against 10-man Newcastle United.
Mikel Arteta’s squad depth has also improved, with the addition of Eberechi Eze offering flexibility despite injuries to Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Martin Ødegaard. Arsenal’s investment of over £250 million this summer shows clear intent to finally go one better after back-to-back runner-up finishes.
Liverpool, under Arne Slot, remain dangerous. Hugo Ekitike has made a strong start, but £116m signing Florian Wirtz is still adapting to the pace of English football, while new left-back Milos Kerkez has yet to settle.
Both league meetings between the sides ended 2-2 last season, and Sunday’s showdown offers Arsenal the chance to break Liverpool’s year-long unbeaten home run. An early statement here could be crucial in the title race.
Elsewhere this weekend, Tottenham face Bournemouth as they look to maintain their perfect start under Thomas Frank. Manchester City travel to Brighton aiming to recover from defeat to Spurs, while Chelsea meet Fulham in a London derby. Manchester United, winless so far, face added pressure after a shock League Cup exit to Grimsby Town, with Ruben Amorim under scrutiny ahead of their match against Burnley.
