EPL: Mikel Arteta Could Be Without Seven Key Players for Crucial Liverpool vs Arsenal Clash

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta may head into Sunday’s highly anticipated Premier League clash between Liverpool and Arsenal with as many as seven first-team players sidelined due to injuries and fitness concerns.

The Gunners, who are currently battling at the top end of the Premier League table, face a difficult trip to Anfield, and the situation has been made more complicated by the potential absence of several important squad members.

Injury Concerns for Arsenal Ahead of Liverpool Showdown

In his pre-match press briefing, Arteta confirmed that Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus will not be available due to injuries. These three players are considered vital to Arsenal’s attacking threat, and their absence could significantly affect the team’s rhythm and creativity against Liverpool’s high-intensity style.

Adding to the manager’s headache, Leandro Trossard is also a major doubt for the encounter. Arteta admitted that the Belgian international may not be fit enough to feature.

“We haven’t got Gabriel Jesus, we haven’t got Kai Havertz and we don’t have Bukayo,” Arteta told reporters.
“That is our reality, and Leandro Trossard too, probably.”

Further Doubts Over Key Players

The injury list does not end there. Club captain Martin Ødegaard faces a late fitness test and could miss the match depending on his recovery progress. Meanwhile, Christian Norgaard and Ben White are also considered doubtful, with the medical staff monitoring their situations closely.

If these players fail to recover in time, Arsenal’s squad depth will be severely tested.

Possible Tactical Adjustments for Arsenal

With many senior players potentially ruled out, Arteta might be forced to reshuffle his attacking options. Reports suggest he could rely on summer arrivals if available selections are limited. That could mean a possible attacking lineup including Eberechi Eze, Viktor Gyökeres, and Noni Madueke, giving Arsenal a new but untested attacking look against Liverpool.

This would be a massive challenge for the London club, especially considering Liverpool’s unbeaten run at Anfield and their formidable home advantage.

What This Means for the Title Race

The upcoming fixture is not just another league game—it is a top-of-the-table clash that could have a direct impact on the Premier League title race. Both teams are battling for supremacy at the top, and any slip-up could prove costly as the season progresses.

For Arsenal, playing without several of their first-team regulars against a strong Liverpool side could expose weaknesses. However, Arteta has often emphasized the importance of squad depth and adaptability, suggesting that Arsenal’s younger and newer signings may have a chance to step up on the big stage.