Defending Premier League champions, Liverpool face Arsenal in their next game of the Premier League where the Reds to maintain their 100% record. Klopp and his men have looked comfortable this season in the Premier League as they look to win back to back titles. On their way are Arsenal though, who have also been fine-tuned in the summer and look sharp.
In their last game against Lincoln City, Jurgen Klopp rested most of his first-team players for the Carabao Cup clash. That has helped the Reds get some necessary rest before the important game against the Gunners in the Premier League. Arsenal surely have the potential to beat Liverpool but for that to happen several things have to go right for the Gooners.
Fabinho might still end up playing centre-back, especially after the arrival of Thiago Alcantara, in the Premier League’s showpiece fixture this game-week. Let us now have a look at how Liverpool might lineup against Arsenal tomorrow.
THE 4-3-3
Liverpool have Joel Matip and Joe Gomez both out injured and it is very likely for Fabinho to play as centre-back in the second week running. The Brazilian played very well alongside Van Dijk against Chelsea and was one of the best players of the game. Even Alisson is a doubt for the game and there is a slight chance that Adrian might plat in between the sticks for Liverpool.
New signing Thiago Alcantara is also a minor doubt for the game, but with Henderson’s injury, Klopp will try to start with Thiago. Wijnaldum and Keita will be expected to put in the graft and energy from the midfield for the Reds. Arsenal will be expected to play a 3-4-3 system and thus Liverpool’s midfield will need to be at its best, especially defensively, to keep Arsenal at bay.
The pace of Aubameyang will be a serious threat to Liverpool and Alexander-Arnold has to be careful of the Gabonese winger. With Arsenal’s 3-4-3 formation they Gunners will invite Liverpool’s full-backs to push higher and will try to counter with the pace of Aubameyang and Saka. Liverpool’s centre-backs and defensive midfielder have to be alert and sniff out any counter-attacking chance.
THE 4-2-3-1
Jurgen Klopp might be tempted to use the 4-2-3-1 formation which will provide balance to his injury-hit Liverpool side. With all the doubts and injuries, Klopp might be tempted with a safe and balanced system that gives Liverpool better defensive shape.
Every game in the Premier League is important thus Klopp will likely go for the safer route.
Arsenal will move the ball quickly from back to front and will look to catch Liverpool on the counter, thus Klopp will have to work hard tactically. But if Liverpool’s front three are able to stamp their authority early in the game, it will be difficult to defeat the Reds. In the 4-2-3-1 system, Firmino will have even more say in the build-up play.
If Liverpool have to win this game, they will have to be very good overall. The gegenpress might play into the hands of Arsenal, but if done right, it can also be Arsenal’s nightmare.
