Liverpool host Arsenal in a blockbuster Sunday clash at Anfield, with little left to play for but pride and a shot at a 90-point season. Arne Slot’s Reds, already guaranteed the title, are on a farewell tour for Trent Alexander-Arnold, who’s Real Madrid-bound, and aim to extend their run of scoring twice in 14 of their last 15 home games since September’s shock loss to Nottingham Forest.
For Arsenal, however, the stakes are sky-high. Mikel Arteta’s Gunners, reeling from a Champions League semi-final exit to PSG and a three-game losing streak, risk a catastrophic collapse that could jeopardise their top-four spot and Champions League qualification next season.
The Gunners’ fragility was evident in their recent 2-1 loss at Bournemouth, marking their 10th failure to win from a leading position this season, with 21 points dropped - a joint-club record. A five-game unbeaten run against Liverpool in the league offers hope, but Arsenal haven’t won a top-flight match at Anfield since 2012, making this a daunting test.
Their last meeting in October, a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Emirates, saw Bukayo Saka and Mikel Merino trade blows with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, a game where Arsenal’s early dominance faded, and Liverpool’s late equaliser exposed the Gunners’ knack for letting leads slip - something they can ill afford to repeat if they’re to secure a Champions League return.
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Team News
Liverpool
The Premier League champions are in good shape, with only two players ruled out for Sunday’s clash against Arsenal.
Joe Gomez is sidelined with a hamstring injury, ruling him out for rest of season, while Tyler Morton remains absent due to a shoulder problem. No suspensions for Arne Slot to worry about.
Arsenal
Arsenal’s injury list is easing but still significant, with Riccardo Calafiori and Jorginho returning to the squad against PSG, and Jurrien Timber and Martin Odegaard recovering from knocks sustained in the Bournemouth defeat.
However, long-term absentees Gabriel Jesus (knee), Gabriel Magalhaes (hamstring), Takehiro Tomiyasu (knee), and Kai Havertz (hamstring) are still unavailable.
One positive is Havertz - the German is expected back before the season’s end.
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Likely Line-Ups
Liverpool (4-2-3-1)
Alisson; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Diaz
Arsenal (4-3-3)
Raya; White, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Saka, Merino, Martinelli
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Key Players
Liverpool - Mohamed Salah
Mohamed Salah's importance to this Liverpool side goes without saying, considering his ever-consistent efficiency in front of goal over the years. The Egyptian of course netted in the reverse fixture, back in October.
The 32-year-old currently sits on 28 goals and 18 assists in the Premier League this season - he will undoubtedly cause problems up against Myles Lewis-Skelly who may well show signs of fatigue after performing vs PSG midweek.
Arsenal - Bukayo Saka
Bukayo Saka’s magic could be Arsenal’s trump card in tomorrow’s showdown, especially 1v1 up against Liverpool’s Andy Robertson.
Arsenal’s attack has taken flak under Mikel Arteta this season, often stuttering despite their talent, but Saka remains their go-to game-changer. His knack for slicing through defenses with such quick feet and sharpness is what makes him a nightmare for any full-back, even one as experienced as Robertson.
With the Gunners desperate to secure a Champions League spot, Saka’s ability to spark chaos and deliver in big moments may well be the difference against the champions.
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Match details
Where is the game being played?
The match is to be played at Anfield, home of Liverpool FC.
What time is kick-off?
Kick off is at 16:30 GMT on Sunday 11th May.
How can I watch?
Viewers will be able to watch the match live on Sky Sports Main Event / Sky Sports Premier League channels.
