Arsenal set to humble Liverpool at the Emirates with this superb line-up

By Danong 

Arsenal, buoyed by five wins on the bounce, will be eager to extend their sparkling festive run in the Premier League when they welcome Liverpool to the Emirates on Thursday night.  

Beyond the sheer desire to sustain their momentum, the Gunners carry an added incentive into this clash.

It was Liverpool who first punctured Arsenal’s earlier in the season, one of only two sides to do so, the other being Aston Villa.

That memory alone ensures Arsenal approach this fixture with fire in their veins.  

Gabriel Magalhaes’ return has proved a timely boost, not only reinforcing the defence but also rekindling his instinct for decisive goals. 

Meanwhile, Gabriel Jesus has seized his opportunities with flashes of brilliance that underline his attacking threat.

As for Kai Havertz, he could well come into contention against Liverpool, thereby injecting yet another dimension into Arteta’s tactical options.

With that said, here is how Mikel Arteta might line up to outmanoeuvre Arne Slot’s Liverpool (who are unbeaten in seven):  

Predicted XI  

Raya

Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapié

Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard 

Saka, Gyökeres, Trossard  

From the bench, Arteta could introduce Noni Madueke, Gabriel Martinelli, Mikel Merino, Eberechi Eze, and perhaps Jesus, arguably the strongest "finishers" Arsenal can summon on the night.  

In a boost to Arsenal, Liverpool’s striking options, however, appear far less certain. Hugo Ekitike remains a doubt, while Alexander Isak is already sidelined.  

Arsenal’s form, their desire for vengeance, and Liverpool’s attacking absences, with Salah also unavailable, may well tilt the balance in the Gunners’ favour, leaving them well poised to seize a statement victory over the reigning champions.