Ex-Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson expects his former club to come away with a point from their trip to Anfield this weekend.
Writing in his Sportskeeda column, Merson warned the Gunners that they have to play better than they did against Manchester United if they want anything from the game versus Liverpool:
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“What a huge football match this is before the international break. Bukayo Saka is definitely out and we’re waiting to find out if Martin Odegaard plays. Arsenal need to come out of this trip to Anfield with at least a draw. If they lose, Liverpool have a massive advantage because of the fixtures they have played till now…”
“If Arsenal play like they did against Manchester United, they have no chance and they will get blown away at Anfield. I don’t think Arsenal will be that poor though… Eberechi Eze should start this game, and he’s a top player. Sometimes, whan
Liverpool go attack, attack, attack. It can be relentless for their opponents. That’s where you need players like Eze to keep hold ot the ball. So if they play like they did at Old Trattord, this game will be over by halftime!”
What score is Merson predicting for Liverpool vs Arsenal?
The Sky Sports pundit has gone with a 1-1 draw, which is a result which may slightly disappoint supporters who will be hoping to finally get a victory away from home on Merseyside.
While Mikel Arteta’s side have not lost this fixture since 2021, they have recorded four consecutive draws, so yet another point would be rather unsatisfactory, considering Arne Slot’s side have looked pretty vulnerable defensively in the opening weeks of the season.
The latest Arsenal team news
Manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Bukayo Saka will be out for a few weeks with a hamstring injury. Odegaard (shoulder), Christian Norgaard and Ben White (both knocks) are all doubts.
Kai Havertz has undergone surgery on a knee problem and he could be sidelined for several months. Gabriel Jesus (ACL) is still short of match fitness and he has not taken part in team training yet. His comeback is expected sometime after the next international break.
Read more about the Arsenal First Team Squad for 2025/26 here