Arsenal and Liverpool Prepare for Key Premier League Clash

Liverpool showcased remarkable domestic dominance last season, surging to the top and finishing the campaign with a notable ten-point lead over their nearest competitors.

Arsenal, having secured the second position for three consecutive years, currently sits atop the league table this season, holding a five-point advantage and 14 points ahead of Liverpool as they prepare for their upcoming match in North London on Thursday.

Discussing the anticipated clash, Szoboszlai shared insights with Sky Sports: “It’s a long journey. The Premier League is challenging, and winning it by January is unlikely. They’re up against the champions and are aware they are among the favorites, equipped with an exceptional team and outstanding players.

“They must also consider City and Villa, who are performing exceptionally well. We are not playing against the champions; they are the ones facing the champions. Reflecting on last year, by February we were ten points clear, yet I was still cautious, knowing we hadn’t secured the title. Internally, I recognized the opportunity.

“Now, since we find ourselves several points behind, we can’t think long-term. We can dream and discuss possibilities, but our focus must remain on each game to demonstrate that we can contend for a top-four position. We need favorable circumstances—it’s still possible.”

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Liverpool has already experienced more losses this season—six in the league—than they did throughout the entirety of the 2024-25 campaign. Addressing this unexpected downturn, Szoboszlai commented, “Such occurrences are sometimes inevitable. When the manager joined last year, expectations were low, but we began strongly and maintained momentum.

“Initially, few believed we could win, and our chances seemed slim. We started well this season, and luck was in our favor, showing we were ready again. Sometimes, setbacks occur, and the response may not be as expected; we witnessed this with City last season. It’s crucial to recognize our objectives and focus on each game without looking too far ahead.”

This season, several Liverpool stars have struggled, including high-profile signings Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak. Mohamed Salah has also been the center of attention due to recent performance issues, leading to speculation about his future.

Regarding Salah, who is expected to return from the Africa Cup of Nations ready to contribute and quell exit rumors, Szoboszlai remarked: “Our friendship is quite strong. From the beginning, he took me under his wing, guiding me through various challenges. We grow closer every day and build mutual trust. I know many things about him that others do not.

“It’s unfortunate to witness the situation unfold, but he is professional enough to manage it. I chose not to get involved, knowing he would navigate this on his own. I was there for him daily; he possesses the character to manage his circumstances.

“Everyone hopes he will return after AFCON ready to assist us as he did last season. Ultimately, the decision rests with him and the club. As a teammate, I cherish playing alongside him and recognize his capabilities. He has demonstrated that he is capable of anything.”

Currently, Liverpool is on a nine-game unbeaten streak, notably recovering from a prior stretch where they lost nine out of twelve matches. Looking ahead to their match against Arsenal, a victory would bring them within 11 points of the Gunners, with 17 games remaining in the season.