The wheels are falling off at Arsenal after dropping more points against bottom-placed Wolves, and it shows how Liverpool have moved ahead of their rivals in a crucial metric.
The Reds are well out of the title race with just 12 games to go, but what a shame that is.
Arsenal’s poor form will only frustrate Liverpool, who will see this season more and more as a missed opportunity, considering the low standard at the top of the table.
Mikel Arteta’s men are stumbling at every hurdle, and something they hung their hat on as a key strength is now not that.
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Alexander Isak pictured warming up ahead of Liverpool's Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
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In fact, Liverpool have overtaken them.
Arsenal’s defensive record in 2026 compared to Liverpool’s
The Gunners have played two extra fixtures since the turn of the new year.
They have conceded 14 in 14 games, having been tipped to push for Chelsea’s Premier League record earlier in the season.
Liverpool, on the other hand, have been much better behind the ball. Slot’s side have conceded ten goals in 12.
Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate after Liverpool goal
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There was never much of an argument to be made for Arsenal being the best attacking side in the league, but their back line is what makes them a title contender.
The collapse against Wolves is just the latest sign that their biggest strength is becoming less of a factor in games. It’s just a shame Liverpool aren’t within range to punish them for it.
Arsenal could end the season trophyless
For months, this has looked set to be the season in which Arsenal finally get over the hump.
There just wasn’t an obvious challenger to their title charge, and, similar to last term with Liverpool, the gap created early on made it seem like this would be a breeze of a title charge.
Now, Man City are five points behind with a game in hand, and Arteta’s side are looking far less convincing. The Carabao Cup final will be huge.
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Rio Ngumoha of Liverpool running during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Liverpool FC and Atletico de Madrid at Anfield. Trey Nyoni in action during Liverpool's pre-season friendly against Athletic Bilbao at Anfield. Kieran Morrison during Liverpool v Crystal Palace - Carabao Cup Fourth Round.
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If City can capitalise on their extra game while also breaking Arsenal hearts at Wembley, it would surely send them into a panic.
Liverpool, Chelsea, Newcastle and City are all still in the FA Cup as well. How mad would it be if the team dubbed ‘best in Europe’ all season comes away empty-handed?
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