Arsenal vs Liverpool: 3 keys to a seismic Premier League win

  • Arsenal will host Liverpool in a Super Sunday showdown
  • The Gunners won this fixture 3-2 last season
  • Victory would leave Arsenal just two points off top
Gabriel Martinelli will be key to an Arsenal triumph over Liverpool
Gabriel Martinelli will be key to an Arsenal triumph over Liverpool / Sebastian Frej/MB Media/GettyImages
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2. Exert control on the game

Martin Ødegaard
Arteta could instruct Martin Odegaard to operate from a deeper position / Richard Heathcote/GettyImages

Much easier said than done.

Liverpool are at their most dangerous in transition and know just how to create the chaotic conditions in which they flourish; using an exceptional press to force opponents long and winning possession back in their own half.

Compared to other teams, Arsenal seem particularly well placed to deal with this scenario as Kai Havertz and Declan Rice can both succeed in aerial duels and enable us to retain the ball in central areas, thereby preventing counter attacks.

Meanwhile, Martin Odegaard occupied a deeper role than usual in the December clash and executed many safe, short passes that greatly limited turnover opportunities, with similar security required to keep Liverpool at bay here.     

Sloppiness like we showed on Merseyside simply cannot happen if we are to claim a vital win (I still have nightmares about that corner breakaway), and Arteta has the options available to ensure they don’t.   

Continued on the next slide...