The stage is set at Anfield for probable runners-up Arsenal to give newly crowned Champions Liverpool a guard of honour. It is not the first time in recent years that the Gunners are faced with the prospect of congratulating the Merseysiders as they did so in the 2019/20 season.
Liverpool were crowned champions following their 5-1 thumping of Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield two weeks ago. Last weekend, they were beaten by Chelsea, which allowed the Blues to climb up in the top-four race, but Liverpool fans could not have cared less.
While they were a bit lax against Chelsea, Arne Slot would want his team to show character against a side that challenged them for the title to a certain degree. Hence, a defeat under any circumstances will be seen as a bad result despite the Merseysiders having nothing to play for at this stage.
As for Mikel Arteta, he would want to see a big response from his team following a disappointing end to a promising UEFA Champions League campaign. Arsenal were beaten by PSG away from home in a competitive semi-final second leg away in Paris, as the hosts managed to see the game through and make it to the final in Munich.
Arsenal are widely expected to make their customary Champions League place through their Premier League place, although that has come under jeopardy in recent weeks. As Arteta’s side had all the focus on their Champions League, they let their league form slip and have allowed the likes of Manchester City and Newcastle United to close the gap.
Last weekend, they suffered a home loss to Bournemouth, who came from a goal down to beat the Gunners. With Manchester City only managing a draw to Southampton, Arsenal could tighten their grip on the second spot with a win over Liverpool at Anfield, something they have not achieved at this venue for a long time.
Heading to Sunday, Arne Slot has a full-fit squad at his disposal barring the absence of Joe Gomez, who may miss the remainder of the season. The Dutchman is expected to name his strongest lineup for this clash, with Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister expected to take the main midfield positions.
Arne Slot also confirmed in his press conference that Trent Alexander-Arnold is unlikely to start at right-back following his announcement to leave the club. The decision might be influenced by the reception the defender could get at Anfield as well as allowing Conor Bradley the chance to prove himself before the season ends and the window opens.
Mohamed Salah will be the main man in the attacking third, with Cody Gakpo expected to take the spot on the left. Luis Diaz could lead the line for Liverpool, with Dominik Szoboszlai in the attacking midfield role for the team.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Bradley; Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Diaz
The Gunners are not missing anyone new following their game with PSG, although Mikel Arteta might make a few changes. Ben White could replace Jurrien Timber at right-back, while Leandro Trossard could feature in place of Gabriel Martinelli on the left wing.
Arteta also has the chance to test Riccardo Calafiori in a centre-back role in place of Jakub Kiwior, although the Italian could potentially replace Myles Lewis-Skelly at left-back. Beyond that, no further changes are expected from the Arsenal boss agao.
Martin Odegaard will be a part of the midfield setup alongside Thomas Partey and Declan Rice, while Mikel Merino continues to lead the line. Bukayo Saka will feature on the right wing, as he hopes to continue his good record against Liverpool on Sunday.
Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Raya; Ben White, Saliba, Kiwior, Calafiori; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Saka, Merino, Trossard
The Liverpool winger is having an all-timer of a season in the Premier League, and he is one goal or assist away from breaking Andy Cole or Alan Shearer’s record for goal involvement in a single campaign. He is also closing in on Thierry Henry’s assists record, which could be something on the Egyptian’s mind.
Salah could also match former teammate Roberto Firmino’s record of 11 goals against Arsenal with a strike against the North Londoners on Sunday. Either way, it could be a big game for the Egyptian against the team that challenged Liverpool for the title this season and may feel he has a point to prove against them.
Arsenal are not in the best of form or mood following their exit from the UEFA Champions League. They might have to recalibrate themselves to finish the season in a flourish, but the gap between the PSG game and this one against Liverpool could have an effect.
The Gunners are not particularly under pressure, as they need only one victory from their next three games to confirm a UEFA Champions League spot. However, Liverpool will take this game a bit seriously despite being crowned Champions as Arne Slot will look to take advantage of a rather fatigued Gunners squad to secure a win at Anfield.
