Arsenal [take on](https://paininthearsenal.com/arsenal-vs-liverpool-preview-prediction-lineups-8-1-26) Liverpool in their first home game of 2026 as they look to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table.
The Gunners [defeated Bournemouth 3-2](https://paininthearsenal.com/bournemouth-2-3-arsenal-player-ratings-as-rice-double-helps-gunners-come-from-behind) in their last outing, coming from behind to take three points on the South Coast. Gabriel Magalhaes levelled matters after Evanilson put the hosts ahead before a Declan Rice brace put the seal on victory despite a late fightback by the Cherries.
With Liverpool ready to pose a threat, Mikel Arteta will know he has to field the strongest side possible this evening and he may make a few changes as a result.
Here's how Arsenal could line up against the Reds.
Predicted Arsenal lineup vs Liverpool (4-3-3)
---------------------------------------------
Trossard coming back in | Stuart MacFarlane/GettyImages
### Goalkeeper & Defenders
**David Raya (GK) -** He hasn't kept a clean sheet since the 1-0 victory at Everton, but he will keep his place in the lineup once again.
**Jurrien Timber (RB) -** Will have a lot of work to do defending his side, but will be prepared for the challenge as always.
**William Saliba (CB) -** He was solid in the win over Bournemouth and will retain his spot for this one as expected.
**Gabriel Magalhaes (CB) -** His mistake at the Vitality could have been costly, but he made amends with the equaliser so there is no doubt he will start against Liverpool.
**Piero Hincapié (LB) -** He has stepped up in the absence of Calafiori and with the Italian out once again, he will keep his grasp on the left back role.
### Midfielders
**Martin Ødegaard (CM) -** The skipper will lead his side out for this game and will be hoping to have a creative impact in an all-important game.
**Martín Zubimendi (CM) -** He has shown some struggles with the physicality and demands of the Premier League in recent weeks, but he hasn't let it affect his performances so he will start once again.
**Declan Rice (CM) -** He was the hero against Bournemouth, with his two goals helping his side to victory so there is no question over his role this evening.
### Forwards
**Bukayo Saka (RW) -** He was given somewhat of a rest against Bournemouth, but came on to grab an assist and he will return to the starting XI for this test.
**Viktor Gyökeres (ST) -** Still searching for a goal, he will have a great chance against a struggling Liverpool defence as he leads the line tonight.
**Leandro Trossard (LW) -** Like Saka, he played a substitute role at the weekend, but he will come back into the lineup this evening.