Set-piece power and lacklustre attack: The key factors that could decide Arsenal-Liverpool

Arsenal versus Liverpool is always one of the highlights in the Premier League calendar, as it's a game that usually provides plenty of fireworks and memorable moments. 

From Andrei Arshavin's famous quadruple and Sadio Mane's first-ever Liverpool goal, to Thierry Henry dancing through the Reds' defence and Steve McManaman's worldie at Highbury, they are games full of iconic memories. 

The 2026 version sees a new and fascinating twist on their history, with a dynamic of champions-elect going up against the current Premier League champs. 

The Gunners have a six-point lead at the top of the table and are favourites to finally land their first title since 2004. However, it's been a different story for Arne Slot's men, who have floundered in their championship defence as they've struggled to accommodate a wrath of new big-money signings. 

It sees the Merseysiders a whopping 14 points behind the leaders, with their sole focus on making sure they at least make the top four this season. Yet, they remain one of only two teams to have defeated Arsenal this season and ahead of the clash in North London, DAZN News looks at what key factors could decide the game. 

Set-piece power 

The current Premier League season has seen set-pieces come back en vogue in a big way. 

We've seen in recent years how effective corners can be, with clubs employing specific set-piece coaches as a way of adding another weapon to their armoury. And now it feels like we're seeing the fruit of that labour, with a renewed focus on corners and long throws up and down the league. 

Thursday then sees an intriguing contest as it pits the team with the most goals from set pieces in Arsenal, against the side who have conceded the most, Liverpool. 

Now, that right there would suggest that there's a game plan to follow for Mikel Arteta, and that's to add to the 15 goals they've scored by way of a dead-ball situation this season by targeting the Reds' biggest weakness. 

Twelve times, Liverpool have succumbed to goals from set-pieces, and Arne Slot must make defending these situations a priority, or they will be severely punished by the league leaders. 

The meeting in the middle 

Liverpool's midfield balance has been one of the biggest conundrums for Arne Slot this season, especially with the addition of Florian Wirtz and where best to play their big-money recruit. 

Last season, their midfield was based around the trio of Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai, but several factors have meant the three have failed to replicate the success again in 2025-26. 

With Slot trying to accommodate, Wirtz, Szoboszlai being needed in other areas, and a big drop in form from the midfield overall, it's been a key reason behind their disappointing title defence. 

Arsenal, however, looks to have found the perfect blend thanks to the arrival of Martin Zubimendi. The Spaniard's position at the base of midfield, quietly and efficiently protecting the back four, has given Declan Rice the license to explode in the box-to-box midfielder we all know he can be. So much so, he's being talked up as an early contender for the Player of the Year. 

Add in a rejuvenated Martin Odegaard, who is slowly getting back to his best, and it's a midfield that is functioning on another level to Liverpool. 

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Liverpool's lack of attack 

The Reds went into the festive period already without Mohamed Salah, but have suffered two major injury blows in attack that have now left them short in a vital area of the pitch. Not the best preparation when facing the best defence in the league. 

Alexander Isak's troubled start to life at Anfield continued in December when he picked up an ankle knock that looks to have ruled him out until February and now Hugo Ekitike is struggling to return following his omission with a muscle issue from the draw with Fulham at the weekend.

It will mean Cody Gakpo will once again lead the line, a role he can fill admirably, but is perhaps not the best use of his skillset. 

Whereas the hosts have an abundance of riches to choose from now that Gabriel Jesus has returned, meaning the Brazilian could get the nod in attack or Arteta could stick with Viktor Gyokeres, with the Swede needing a statement performance. 

Even if either has an off day, there's still Saka, Martenelli, Madueke, Eze or Trossard to switch in or out, which will only add to Liverpool's worries. 

How to watch the Premier League in Canada

Soccer fans in Canada can watch every Premier League match during the 2025-26 season on DAZN.

With Fubo Sports on DAZN, Canadians can catch Premier League action as well as Serie A. Additionally, DAZN is the home of the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Conference League, Bundesliga, and more.

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