Liverpool vs Arsenal: Predicted Starting XIs for the 2026-27 Premier League Showdown

Liverpool and Arsenal prepare to meet, with both clubs navigating extensive injury lists ahead of a fixture that remains pivotal in the title race.

The hosts arrive following a 2-0 victory over Albion on October 25 and a 2-1 win against Brentford on October 17. That positive run followed a 0-3 defeat to Manchester City on October 11, underscoring the cost of slipping up against elite opposition. Three points here would ease lingering concerns from the City result and keep Iraola’s side firmly in contention.

Arsenal travel to Anfield on the back of three consecutive victories: a 2-0 win over Everton on October 24, a 1-0 success against Nottingham on October 18, and a 2-1 triumph at Leeds on October 10. Arteta’s team is unbeaten in its last three outings. A positive result at Anfield would extend that streak against their sternest test of the run.

Liverpool projected lineup

Iraola deploys Liverpool in a 4-2-3-1 formation, though a lengthy absentee list forces changes. Dominik Szoboszlai, Conor Bradley, and Jeremie Frimpong are unavailable, pushing Ronald Araujo into defense alongside Virgil Van Dijk and Jérémy Jacquet. Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister anchor midfield, supporting a forward line of Florian Wirtz, Bradley Barcola, and Cody Gakpo behind Alexander Isak. With Hugo Ekitiké also sidelined, Isak becomes the clear focal point up front. Limited depth in defense and attack leaves Liverpool with fewer options to adjust as the match unfolds.

Liverpool projected starting XI (4-2-3-1): Alisson, Ronald Araujo, Jérémy Jacquet, Virgil Van Dijk, Miloš Kerkez, Ryan Gravenberch, Florian Wirtz, Alexis Mac Allister, Bradley Barcola, Alexander Isak, Cody Gakpo. Coach: Andoni Iraola.

Arsenal projected lineup

Arteta also sets Arsenal up in a 4-2-3-1, without Bukayo Saka and William Saliba—two major absences that reshape both sides of the pitch. Gabriel Magalhães and Ben White assume added defensive responsibility in Saliba’s absence, while Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke flank Kai Havertz in an attacking trio designed to offset Saka’s missing presence. Declan Rice and Bruno Guimarães screen the back four to protect the reshuffled defense, with Martín Odegaard responsible for connecting midfield and attack.

Arsenal projected starting XI (4-2-3-1): David Raya, Ben White, Ezri Konsa, Gabriel Magalhães, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Declan Rice, Martín Odegaard, Bruno Guimarães, Noni Madueke, Kai Havertz, Eberechi Eze. Coach: Mikel Arteta.

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