Arsenal made it two wins from two in the Premier League when they beat Leeds United 5-0 on Saturday afternoon, though the Gunners did not walk away unscathed.
Mikel Arteta will be delighted that new, big-money striker Viktor Gyokeres opened his competitive account at the Emirates with a brace at the weekend, especially after he struggled against Manchester United on matchday one.
Additionally, 15-year-old starboy Max Dowman made his top-flight debut for the Londoners, and he showcased his potential when he won a penalty in stoppage time.
However, captain Martin Odegaard suffered a shoulder injury when he landed awkwardly, and though he initially played on, he had to be substituted off in the first half.
To make matters worse, talismanic forward Bukayo Saka was forced off in the second half with what appeared to be a hamstring injury, and the Gunners are concerned that he could be set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Up next for Arteta's side is a trip to face champions Liverpool at Anfield, and given that they could potentially be missing two of their best players, fans would be forgiven for doubting their chances.
Here, Sports Mole considers how Arsenal might replace Odegaard and Saka next weekend, and how Eberechi Eze might factor in
Arsenal's Martin Odegaard pictured on August 23, 2025
How could Arteta replace Odegaard against Liverpool?
The Gunners captain typically operates as the most advanced midfielder in a trio with Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi, just as he did against Leeds.
This allows the left-footed Norway star to link up with Saka on the right wing, and his ability to cut inside and pick out passes or fire shots at goal is a key weapon for Arsenal.
When Odegaard was taken off with 38 minutes on the clock, highly-rated 18-year-old Ethan Nwaneri was brought on in his place, and while he did not register a goal or assist, he was an important part of their win, and impressively maintained 100% pass accuracy.
For the trip to Anfield next Sunday, the teenager could be vital in exposing Arne Slot's new-look Liverpool, who have been particularly vulnerable to counterattacks.
Should the Gunners line up with centre-halves operating as traditional full-backs once again - as they have done so far this term - then Nwaneri's capacity to dribble and play out of pressure may enable Arteta's side to make the most of transitions.
Arsenal's Bukayo Saka receives treatment for an injury on August 23, 2025
How could Arsenal replace Saka against Liverpool?
Considering the number of defensive players that the Londoners deploy, it would be fair to say that Saka bears the brunt of offensive responsibility for the title challengers.
On Saturday, the England international scored his side's second goal in first-half stoppage time, capitalising on Arsenal's momentum to solidify their grip on the points with his 70th strike for the club.
When the 23-year-old pulled up with his hamstring injury, Arteta decided to shift Noni Madueke to the right, and Leandro Trossard came on to attack the left flank.
While fans will be desperately hoping that Saka's injury is not another long-term setback, the manager has stated that the issue could be significant, and he anxiously awaits the results of a scan.
In the meantime, the number seven will be unavailable against Liverpool and former Chelsea man, Madueke should start on the right, where he will certainly pose a threat to Milos Kerkez - who has been questioned defensively - with his direct approach.
Arsenal's Eberechi Eze pictured on August 23, 2025
In what position could Eze make his debut for Arsenal against Liverpool?
The Gunners unveiled their latest signing Eze at the Emirates on Saturday, and while he must have been delighted to see his new teammates put on such a strong performance, he probably was not expecting a path into the XI to present itself so quickly.
For Crystal Palace, Eze played a variety of roles, though he is mostly known as a left-sided forward or attacking midfielder.
Based on the changes that Arteta made against Leeds, Nwaneri should start in the advanced midfield role vacated by Odegaard, while Madueke should line up on the right flank in place of Saka.
This setup leaves a gap on the left wing that the 27-year-old is likely to fill, and he should make his debut at Anfield on Sunday.
One of the main criticisms that Arsenal have faced in recent seasons is that they have lacked creativity from open play, and the questions surrounding Arteta's playstyle have intensified in 2025-26.
However, the addition of Eze could make a significant difference to the Gunners going forward, and if his 15 goals and 11 assists for Palace last season are anything to go by, then he could push the Londoners towards the title.
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