Arsenal face acid test of arteta revolution at anfield
London, United Kingdom (AFP) — Mikel Arteta has “changed the mood” around Arsenal, according to Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp with the Gunners rejuvenated by winning the FA Cup, Community Shield and their opening two games of the Premier League season.
However, the toughest test of what Arsenal can aim for this season comes today with a trip to Anfield, where Klopp’s men have not lost in 60 league games.
Arteta described Liverpool’s home as the “toughest place in the world” to go, but Arsenal can take confidence from two victories over the Premier League champions in the past three months.
AFP Sports looks at three key battles where the game will be won and lost.
trent alexander-arnold v pierre-emerick aubameyang
Aubameyang has been the key figure in Arsenal’s revival, scoring twice in the FA Cup semi-finals and final to defeat Manchester City and Chelsea and his side’s goal plus the winning penalty in the shootout against Liverpool in the Community Shield.
Arteta has followed Klopp’s example by using his biggest goal threat cutting in from a wide area and Aubameyang will look to exploit the space left by Alexander-arnold as he marauds forward.
“With the speed they have for the counter-attack, that can cause you some trouble,” warned Klopp.
However, Liverpool could just as easily benefit from one of the league’s most creative players in Alexanderarnold not being tracked by Aubameyang.
A minor injury meant he missed the Community Shield and Aubameyang made the most of his absence against the inexperienced Neco Williams. With the England international back, Liverpool are a different side.
thiago v granit xhaka
Liverpool signalled their intent to defend their crown as champions by adding a world-class talent in Thiago Alcantara to a team of winners.
The Spanish international gave a glimpse of what he will offer by completing more passes than any Chelsea