Arsenal vs. Liverpool: 3 key battles in must-win Premier League clash

2. Thomas Partey vs Ryan Gravenberch

Apologies should be as loud as the disrespect; I include myself in that.

It seems Arsenal fans had long since written off Partey and, after minimal involvement last year, his poor displays in early 2024/25 only amplified the calls for fresh legs in midfield – hitting a crescendo following his efforts in Bergamo last month.

But the 31-year-old has bounced back in style and was our MOTM on Tuesday night. His defensive work rate – notably interceptions and a few tackles – made a big impact early on as Arsenal piled the pressure onto Shakhtar, while he also executed several penetrative passes even upon moving to a right-back role, something that could prove crucial in the absence of Martin Odegaard this weekend.

This return to form is very timely as, in Ryan Gravenberch, he will have a top-class opponent to try to get the better of on Sunday. The Liverpool man has been a standout performer for the Reds recently and loves to drive forward from midfield to create openings, with his skillset as both a workhorse and stylish operator likely to give Partey all manner of problems.

Right-back needs might spare Partey the trouble, but a midfield tussle between these two would be a compelling watch.

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