Key Decisions for Liverpool’s Lineup Against Arsenal: Insight on Nunez Selection
Liverpool’s clash with Arsenal this weekend is expected to be a tough test for Jurgen Klopp’s side. However, with their exceptional form and recent victory over Chelsea, the Reds arrive at the Emirates Stadium with confidence. As the Premier League leaders, they aim to secure a healthy lead over their rivals Arsenal and Manchester City.
In his pre-match press conference, Klopp revealed that Liverpool’s squad is growing in numbers as players return from injury. This has given the manager what he described as a “luxury problem” when it comes to selecting his lineup. With this in mind, let’s analyze how Liverpool should line up against Arsenal.
Team News
Liverpool’s training session on Friday provided insight into the squad’s availability. The only players ruled out due to injury are Mo Salah (hamstring), Joel Matip (ACL), Stefan Bajcetic (calf), and Ben Doak (MCL). Meanwhile, Wataru Endo is set to return from the Asian Cup next week.
Liverpool’s XI vs. Arsenal
Considering the relatively healthy turnaround between their previous match and the upcoming clash with Arsenal, it is likely that Klopp will field his strongest possible side. This may mean making tough decisions regarding the right-back position and the attack.
Conor Bradley, who impressed in the midweek victory over Chelsea, could face being dropped despite his standout performance. Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to come in as a replacement. On the other hand, while Andy Robertson is gradually being eased back into the team after months out with injury, Joe Gomez should retain his position at left-back.
The final decision regarding the lineup could depend on Nunez’s fitness. If the medical staff clears him to start, he will likely be included in the starting XI. In this scenario, the most realistic lineup would be:
– Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Gomez; Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Jones; Jota, Diaz, Nunez.
However, if Nunez is not deemed fit enough to start, Klopp may need to bring in another attacker. Cody Gakpo, who has proven his versatility across the forward line like Diogo Jota, could be the obvious choice. It is also arguable that Bradley’s impressive performance against Chelsea warrants him keeping his place ahead of Alexander-Arnold at this point.
Therefore, if Nunez is unavailable, the lineup could potentially look like this:
– Alisson; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Gomez; Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Jones; Gakpo, Diaz, Jota.
Conclusion
Despite the increase in options available to Klopp, it is fairly straightforward to predict how Liverpool will line up against Arsenal. The real advantage for the Reds may come from their ability to make impactful changes from the bench. This gives them a better chance of securing all three points and maintaining their lead in the title race. As Liverpool prepares to face Arsenal, their strong squad depth and impressive form make them favorites to come out on top.