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Liverpool vs Arsenal preview: How the tactical battle at Anfield could shape the Premier League title race?
Liverpool and Arsenal meet at Anfield in what is arguably the biggest Premier League fixture of the weekend.
Both the sides are arriving in good form but with very different tactical setups. Arsenal sit in the second spot on the table after seven wins in their eight games, while Liverpool sit fifth after four wins and three draws in their eight games.
The Reds who've recovered impressively under Andoni Iraola now have a chance to close the gap on the reigning Premier League champions.
On paper, Arsenal look like the favourites. Their numbers have been exceptional as well, with Mikel Arteta's side keeping five clean sheets, conceding the lowest xG and allowing just 11 big chances against them in eight games so far.
Since last season, Arsenal's defensive prowess remains the foundation of the title challenge.
However, the game set to be played at Anfield changes the equation slightly. Arsenal have not won a Premier League match away at Liverpool since 2012 and are winless in their last 13 league visits to Anfield.
The Reds had an inconsistent start to the season under Iraola, but their recent form has been impressive. They've kept four clean sheets in their last 6 league games with victories over the “Bermuda triangle” of the Premier League, Brighton, Brentford and Bournemouth.
Liverpool vs Arsenal: Tactical Battle
Iraola’s Liverpool are unlikely to dominate possession, but his team is built around high intensity, aggressive pressing and quick transitions when possession is won.
Liverpool demonstrated against Brighton that they are comfortable allowing an opponent the ball before becoming dangerous in transition.
Alexander Isak will be crucial in this game as the Swedish striker has scored six goals in his last six Premier League appearances.
Florian Wirtz is slowly finding his form, while Bradley Barcola has also settled in the team.
With Isak as the focal point in attack, Liverpool's aim would be to find space behind Arsenal's rock-solid defence.
The Gunners are difficult to break down through possession football; therefore, Iraola's side could let them keep possession and attempt to hit them through transition.
For Arsenal, the midfield control matters more. Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard have been among the best players in ball progression into the final third.
These two are also press-resistant and will be key, as they've the ability to play through Liverpool's press.
Rice provides defensive protection and ball progression, while Odegaard’s movement between the lines can pull Liverpool's midfield structure apart.
Arsenal are also lethal from set pieces. However, with Liverpool, equipped with Van Dijk and Ronald Araujo, this partnership has improved Liverpool's defence and provided a much-needed physical presence to tackle Arsenal's aerial threat.
Liverpool vs Arsenal: Who are the favourites?
As per Opta, Arsenal edge Liverpool, and it gives them a 41.8% chance of victory over Liverpool's 32.7%.
It makes the Gunners' slight favourites despite their dreadful record at Anfield.
Liverpool's recent performances, home advantage and attacking options makes this game closer than anything suggests.
Arsenal possess a better defensive structure and better consistency, but the Reds have the tools to disrupt them.
My Prediction: Liverpool 2-2 Arsenal. Arsenal may have started the game strongly consistency,but Liverpool's resurgence under Iraola is difficult to ignore.
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