Arsenal players
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal will face another stern test in the Premier League this weekend when they travel to Anfield to take on defending champions Liverpool.
Both sides have made perfect starts to the new campaign, winning their opening two matches to sit level at the top of the early league table. Sunday’s clash is expected to be an early marker in the title race, though both managers will have to contend with notable injury concerns.
For Arsenal, Kai Havertz will miss the game after sustaining a knee injury in training. The full extent of the issue remains unclear, with the club set to manage the situation conservatively in the coming weeks to determine whether surgery is required.
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Ben White is also a doubt, despite hopes from Mikel Arteta that he could return in time. The defender was expected back for the Leeds match but was not deemed ready.
Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard are further concerns after picking up knocks in the previous game. While Saka’s problem is not thought to be serious, Odegaard’s availability will be assessed closer to kick-off.
Arsenal - Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard
Arsenal stars Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard both suffered injuries against Leeds United (Image credit: Getty Images)
Elsewhere, Gabriel Jesus remains sidelined long-term with an ACL injury suffered in January, while Christian Norgaard will also miss the trip with a minor issue.
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Liverpool, meanwhile, will be without summer signing Jeremie Frimpong. Manager Arne Slot confirmed the right-back will not return from his hamstring injury until after the international break in mid-September.
Despite the absences, the clash promises to be a thrilling contest. Arsenal head into the fixture on the back of a dominant 5-0 victory over Leeds United, while Liverpool sealed a dramatic late win against 10-man Newcastle United on Monday night.
With both clubs eager to lay down an early statement of intent, all eyes will be on Anfield for what could prove to be a pivotal early-season encounter.
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