Arsenal vs Liverpool: Match prediction, possible lineups and key team news
By William Muthama, January 7, 2026Premier League leaders Arsenal host Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium on Thursday, January 8, 2026, with the title race firmly in focus.
The Gunners top the table on 48 points, holding a 14-point cushion over the defending champions, and know that another home win would further underline their authority this season.
Arteta’s side comes into the contest on a seven-game winning run in all competitions, while Liverpool arrives unbeaten in nine but slowed by back-to-back league draws.
Head-to-head history
Arsenal and Liverpool have one of English football’s longest-running rivalries. The two sides have met 245 times since their first encounter
Liverpool holds a narrow historical edge, with 96 victories compared to Arsenal’s tally, while 66 matches have ended in draws. In more recent meetings, the margins have been fine.
Across the last 10 encounters in all competitions, Liverpool have won four, Arsenal have claimed two, and four have ended level.
However, the balance shifts when the fixture moves to North London. Arsenal are unbeaten in their last three home league meetings with the Reds and have repeatedly frustrated reigning champions at the Emirates.
Liverpool won the reverse fixture 1-0 at Anfield in August, but they have not won a league match away at Arsenal since 2022, a trend that adds weight to the hosts’ confidence.
Team news
Arsenal are without Max Dowman and Cristhian Mosquera due to ankle injuries, while Riccardo Calafiori remains a doubt.
Kai Havertz could return after being rested, and Bukayo Saka is expected to start as he chases a fourth straight home league goal against Liverpool.
Liverpool’s problems are more pronounced. Mohamed Salah is away on international duty, Alexander Isak is sidelined, and Hugo Ekitike is a doubt after missing the Fulham draw.
Florian Wirtz is managing a hamstring issue but is expected to feature, while Giovanni Leoni and Wataru Endo are ruled out.
Predicted lineups and prediction
Arsenal possible XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Odegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Gyokeres, Trossard
Liverpool possible XI: Alisson; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Szoboszlai, Wirtz, Jones; Gakpo
Liverpool’s long-term record in this fixture is formidable, but Arsenal’s home form and momentum give them the edge.
Prediction: Arsenal 2-1 Liverpool