3 reasons why a win against Liverpool is crucial for Arsenal

2. Sends a message

Arsenal have looked poor since returning from the international break, having lost 2-0 to Bournemouth and scraping to an unconvincing 1-0 Champions League win over Shakhtar Donetsk. These poor performances are arguably down to Arteta missing key players like Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard, but the team's overall struggles do not help the cause.

Due to these poor results, some rivals and particularly fans have claimed the Gunners are not good enough to challenge for the league title for a third successive season. A victory over Liverpool would send a message that Arsenal are certainly still capable of challenging for the Premier League.

A win would have the same effect as last season's 3-1 victory over the Reds. The Gunners found themselves at a point where it was do or die in terms of the title race and the victory helped put Arteta's side back in it for the remainder of the season.

Securing a victory against Liverpool would also mean Arsenal will have already somewhat overcome their two genuine title rivals. A 2-2 draw at Manchester City while down to ten men for an entire second half and a potential win over Liverpool would certainly cement the Gunners as title contenders, thus making a victory all the more crucial.

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