Arsenal
Arsenal Vs Liverpool – Line-ups, Injury News, Match Facts, Preview And Prediction
Arsenal Vs Liverpool
Wednesday, January 30, 2:45 PM EST
Emirates Stadium
Arsenal welcome Liverpool to the Emirates today in a match where a win is more than 3 points. It’s a battle between a club which is desperate to hold on to it’s Champions league status whilst another is gunning to return back to glory days. Liverpool are currently in 7th place, 3 points behind the Gunners and a win tonight away from Anfield will do a world of good for the inconsistent Reds. Both Arsenal and Liverpool are consistent at being inconsistent and have to learn from theier mistakes if they want a shot at European competitions next season as it is already match day 24.
Liverpool have found it difficult to pick up points against the Gunners lately and they will have to toil hard tonight if they are anywhere near to retun home with 3 points. After crashing out of the FA cup at the hands of Oldham last weekend, Brendan Rodgers will be hoping to restore parity in the league as Champions league qualification could mean more than a cup title for the Reds.
Rodgers talked about club captain Steven Gerrard and the Oldham game to the press, he said:
“I can’t rely on Steven (Gerrard) for 70 games. He has been absolutely incredible. He shouldn’t be expected to come and win games on his own. He came on (against Oldham) and gave a real impetus to the team and his quality was there to be seen. Steven Gerrard and Stewart Downing come on and it is a different game and for 35 minutes we were terrific but it is too late then because we are 3-1 down then. It wasn’t good enough.”
Meanwhile Arsenal will be looking to repeat their performance against Liverpool when they travelled to Anfield during the opening weeks of the campaign and pulled off a 2-0 victory courtesy of goals from Premier league newcomers Podolski and Cazorla. After progressing through to the 5th round in FA cup on the back of a 5-1 riot over West Ham in the league, the Gunners will be heading into the match with shoulders held high.
It all depends on how the attacking trio Giroud, Podolski and Walcott perform. Whilst Walcott have continued to be a threat in front of goal, French International Giroud has done his part as well. 8 goals and an assist in 22 league games is not bad for a player who is in his first season in England.
Team News and Injury News:
Arsene Wenger updated on Arsenal’s injury status in his pre-match press conference yesterday and confirmed that Mikel Arteta will continue to remain sidelined while club captain Vermaelen will be back available for selection. Midfielders Francis Couquelin and Diaby along with keeper Fabianski will remain absent. It is expected that Arsene Wenger will line-up the same team that beat West Ham.
Ramsey, who has been doing quite well in his new deep lying play maker role that has been assigned to him and along with Cazorla and Wilshere the midfield looks decent provided there are no silly mistakes.
For Liverpool, left back Enrique returns and will be available in the bench after sitting out for a month. Goal keeper Reina will also make a return after missing out the last two games due to a thigh injury. Right back Johnson along with Agger and Gerrard will also return to first team after sitting out in their shock defeat at Oldham.
Possible lineups:
Arsenal: Szczesny; Sagna, Mertesacker, Vermaelen, Gibbs; Wilshere, Ramsey, Cazorla; Walcott, Giroud, Podolski
Liverpool: Reina; Johnson, Skrtel, Agger, Wisdom; Downing, Henderson, Allen, Gerrard; Sturridge, Suarez
MATCH FACTS
- Arsenal have lost only one of their last 11 Premier League meetings with Liverpool, but six of these games have also ended in a draw (W4 D6 L1).
- The Reds have won just eight points in their last 12 Premier League away games at Arsenal (W1 D5 L6).
- Liverpool have averaged the highest possession in the Premier League so far this season (59.4%).
- Lukas Podolski tops the Premier League assist charts with nine this season following three in his last appearance against West Ham; the first player to assist three in a single PL game since Steven Pienaar in April 2012.
- The Emirates has witnessed more goals than any other Premier League stadium this season (46).
- Luis Suárez has created more goalscoring chances from open play than any other player in the top five European leagues this season (61).
- There have been seven goals scored in the 90th minute or later in the last eight Premier League meetings between Arsenal and Liverpool.
Facts Courtesy: Yahoo Sport
Prediction: 2-1 in favour of the home side.
Arsenal
Antonio Nusa to Arsenal: Scout Report + SWOT Analysis
Arsenal‘s pursuit of RB Leipzig sensation Antonio Nusa has reached fever pitch, with the Gunners considering the Norwegian left-winger as part of their talks over Benjamin Sesko, with Leipzig potentially valuing Nusa at around €45 million. After a breakthrough campaign that saw the 20-year-old conclude the 2024/25 season with 5 goals and 8 assists across all competitions, this comprehensive SWOT analysis reveals why Nusa could be Arsenal’s most transformative signing.
PLAYER PROFILE – Antonio Nusa
Age: 20 years old
Position: Left Winger/Right Winger
Height: 1.83m
Nationality: Norway (15 caps, 5 goals)
Current Value: €32M-€39.1M
Contract: Until 2029 with RB Leipzig
The fourth youngest player to score in Champions League history brings a staggering pedigree that screams world-class potential. But does he fit Arsenal’s championship puzzle?
SWOT ANALYSIS
STRENGTHS: The Explosive Arsenal
Blistering Pace and Direct Running
Nusa’s acceleration is absolutely frightening. His ability to terrorize full-backs in 1v1 situations has been Leipzig’s secret weapon all season. Known for his explosive pace and direct playing style, the Norwegian brings exactly the kind of penetrative threat that Arsenal’s possession-heavy system occasionally lacks.
Ambidextrous Versatility
Unlike most wingers who fade when switched flanks, Nusa can play on either wing with equal devastation. This tactical flexibility would give Arteta incredible in-game options – imagine the chaos when defenses can’t predict which flank he’ll demolish next!
Youth with Elite Experience
At just 20, Nusa already boasts 86 appearances for Club Brugge with seven goals and six assists, plus his history-making Champions League exploits and currently has 36 appearances for current club RB Leipzig. This isn’t raw potential – it’s proven quality at the highest level.
Clinical End Product
Nusa combines creativity with killer instinct. His numbers suggest a player who doesn’t just beat defenders – he punishes them.
-> READ MORE: 3 Pacey Wingers Arteta Could Sign to Fight Liverpool and City for the title
WEAKNESSES: The Question Marks
Physical Adaptation Concerns
The Premier League’s intensity is unforgiving, and while Nusa has thrived in the Bundesliga, the step up to English football’s relentless pace could expose any physical limitations. At 1.83m, he’s got decent height, but consistency against Premier League physicality remains unproven.
Defensive Contribution
Modern wingers must track back religiously, and Arsenal’s system demands exceptional work rate from wide players. Nusa’s defensive statistics suggest this could be his Achilles heel – a potential liability when Arsenal face counter-attacking threats.
Consistency Issues
Despite his explosive moments, Nusa has played in 25 matches and scored 3 goals in the 2024/2025 Bundesliga season – suggesting he can disappear in certain games. Arsenal need players who deliver week after week, not just in spurts.
OPPORTUNITIES: The Arsenal Fit
Perfect System Match
Arsenal’s fluid front three would unleash Nusa’s versatility. His ability to drift inside, stretch defenses, or interchange positions with Martin Ødegaard creates tactical nightmares for opponents. Arteta’s positional play philosophy would amplify Nusa’s natural intelligence.
Marketing and Commercial Value
A young Norwegian international with Champions League pedigree represents massive commercial potential. Arsenal’s global fanbase would embrace a player with Nusa’s exciting profile and highlight-reel moments.
Long-term Investment
At 20, Nusa offers 10+ years of peak performance. Unlike short-term fixes, this signing future-proofs Arsenal’s attack while potentially delivering massive resale value if he fulfills his world-class potential.
->READ MORE: Arsenal’s Next Saka? Scout Report of Max Dowman who is set for First-Team role
THREATS: The Risk Factors
Adaptation Timeline
Arsenal can’t afford lengthy adaptation periods in their title chase. If Nusa needs 18 months to settle, it could derail immediate championship ambitions while competitors strengthen.
Injury Susceptibility
Explosive wingers often face muscle injuries, and Arsenal’s injury record with pacy players (think Reiss Nelson’s struggles) raises red flags. One long-term injury could turn a €45M investment into dead money.
Competition for Places
With Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Leandro Trossard already competing for wide positions, Nusa might struggle for consistent game time. Unhappy bench warmers rarely fulfill their potential.
Arsenal
How €40m Defender Would Fit in Arsenal’s Current XI?
How Marc Guehi Would Slot Into Arsenal’s Current XI
Marc Guehi’s potential arrival at Arsenal presents fascinating tactical possibilities for Mikel Arteta’s system. With Arsenal’s current defensive setup built around the established partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel, Guehi’s integration would require careful consideration of formation adjustments and positional flexibility.
Current Defensive Structure
Arsenal’s preferred back four currently features Jurrien Timber, William Saliba and Gabriel forming the core defensive unit alongside David Raya in goal, though both Timber and Saliba faced late-season injury concerns. Timber and Saliba missed Arsenal’s final game of the 2024/25 season at Southampton due to injury, with Timber undergoing ankle surgery, but are expected to be back by the beginning on the next season.
Arsenal can switch from a 4-3-3 formation to a 4-2-3-1, providing tactical flexibility that Guehi’s versatility would enhance significantly. His ability to play across the defensive line offers Arteta multiple integration pathways.
READ MORE – 3 Tactical Reasons Why Martin Zubimendi to Arsenal Makes Perfect Sense
Primary Integration Options
Centre-Back Partnership: Guehi’s most natural fit would be alongside Saliba. However, Gabriel is at the peak of his powers, and just signed a massive contract extension as well. However, Guehi’s Premier League experience and leadership qualities make him an immediate option from the bench or as a starter in non-EPL games.
Left Centre-Back Role: Guehi’s comfort on both feet allows him to operate effectively in this position, providing the ball-playing ability Arteta demands from his defenders.
Rotational Competition: Given Arsenal’s demanding fixture list and injury concerns, Guehi would initially provide high-quality depth while competing for a starting position. His consistency and reliability could gradually earn him regular first-team status.
Tactical Benefits
Guehi’s aerial dominance would address Arsenal’s recent defensive set-piece vulnerabilities. His leadership experience, demonstrated through captaining Crystal Palace to FA Cup glory, would strengthen Arsenal’s defensive organization and communication.
The defender’s pace and recovery speed suit Arsenal’s high defensive line, while his composure under pressure aligns with their possession-based approach. His Premier League experience eliminates adaptation concerns that often accompany new signings.
->READ MORE – Rafael Leao to Arsenal: Scout Report + SWOT Analysis
Formation Flexibility
In three-at-the-back formations, Guehi could operate as the left centre-back, providing width and defensive stability.
Immediate Impact Potential
Unlike many transfers requiring extensive bedding-in periods, Guehi’s Premier League pedigree suggests immediate integration possibilities. His understanding of English football’s demands and proven ability in high-pressure situations make him an attractive option for Arsenal’s title ambitions.
The Crystal Palace captain’s FA Cup triumph demonstrates his capability in crucial moments, exactly the mentality Arsenal need for sustained success. His arrival would provide both immediate defensive improvement and long-term strategic value, potentially forming the foundation of Arsenal’s defense for years to come.
Arsenal
Arsenal Target £40M Marc Guehi as Crystal Palace Star Enters Final Contract Year – Mikel Arteta’s Secret Weapon Revealed
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is once again ready to swoop for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, a year on from being priced out of a move for the Eagles’ captain. The timing couldn’t be more perfect for the Gunners, with the England international entering the final year of his Selhurst Park contract.
After being quoted astronomical figures last summer, Arsenal now find themselves in a dramatically improved negotiating position. The 24-year-old centre-back, who captained Palace to FA Cup glory earlier this year, represents exactly the profile Arteta has been seeking to solidify his defensive foundations.
The Tactical Fit That Makes Perfect Sense
Guehi’s attributes align seamlessly with Arsenal’s high-line defensive system. His pace and recovery speed would complement William Saliba’s aggressive positioning, while his left-footed distribution offers the kind of progressive passing that has become essential in modern football. The England defender’s ability to step into midfield during build-up phases makes him a natural fit for Arteta’s possession-heavy approach.
Unlike the cumbersome pursuits of previous transfer windows, this deal has genuine momentum. With the sands of time whittling Guehi’s contract down to its final year, the 24-year-old England defender emerges as a tantalizingly affordable prospect for the Gunners. Palace’s negotiating power has significantly weakened, transforming what was once a £70million+ valuation into a more realistic £40million proposition.
The defensive reinforcement couldn’t come at a more crucial time for Arsenal. With Saliba’s own contract situation creating uncertainty and the aging partnership of Gabriel requiring long-term succession planning, Guehi represents both immediate quality and future investment.
->READ MORE – Rafael Leao to Arsenal: Scout Report + SWOT Analysis
Competition Heats Up the Race
However, Arsenal aren’t operating in isolation. Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea are also interested in making moves for him in the summer of 2025, while Tottenham had a bid turned down in the January transfer window. The North London rivalry adds another layer of intrigue, with Spurs having already tested Palace’s resolve earlier this year.
What gives Arsenal the edge is their established relationship with Guehi’s representatives and the player’s apparent preference for Champions League football. The Gunners’ European pedigree and Arteta’s reputation for developing young defenders could prove decisive factors.
->READ MORE – Jorrel Hato to Arsenal: Scout Report + SWOT Analysis
The Bigger Picture
This pursuit represents more than just squad depth for Arsenal. Guehi’s arrival would signal serious intent in their title challenge, addressing one of the few remaining gaps in an otherwise complete squad. His leadership qualities, demonstrated through Palace’s cup triumph, align with Arteta’s emphasis on character alongside ability.
With Palace’s contractual leverage diminishing by the day and Arsenal’s defensive needs becoming increasingly urgent, expect this saga to accelerate rapidly. The window of opportunity is narrow, but for once, Arsenal find themselves perfectly positioned to strike.
-
Liverpool13 years ago
Raheem Sterling Age 17 Kids 3 Women 2
-
Arsenal12 years ago
Etienne Capoue To Become An Arsenal Player In Summer
-
Arsenal12 years ago
Arsenal Defender Nacho Monreal Doesn’t Agree The Direction The Club Is Going.
-
Arsenal12 years ago
Robin van Persie wants to move back to Arsenal
-
Arsenal12 years ago
Report: Arsenal Could Sign A Striker Next Week
-
Headlines12 years ago
Manchester United Preparing A (Javier Hernandez + De Gea + 55 Million) Bid For Ronaldo
-
Arsenal12 years ago
Arsenal Planning To Bring In ‘Next Fabregas’
-
Headlines12 years ago
Three Reasons Why Manchester United Must Sign This “Next Vidic”