
Arsenal’s start to the Premier League hasn’t gone as Mikel Arteta had initially planned. Many pundits claimed a two-faceted fight between Manchester City and the Gunners for the title before the start of the season.
However, things have turned out quite differently as Mikel Arteta is sweating before Arsenal’s clash against Liverpool. This was supposed to be The Gunners’ year but injuries and suspensions have put their dreams in the backseat.
The Londoners boast a solid lineup at peak fitness. The fact that they almost won the Premier League last season is enough proof of their potential. However, things have panned out differently this campaign.
Mikel Arteta has doubts over the starting lineup against Liverpool

Arteta will be without his preferred defence if Timber remains unavailable (Credits: Imago Images)
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta usually plans out his XI a day before matchday. Although with uncertainties looming around the Emirates, the Spaniard isn’t as ready as he always is.
“Normally I prefer to go to bed with the line up in my head so I can sleep like a baby. But sometimes it can not be as you have to wait for the next day. Sometimes two days before. Or just three days before you already have the idea ‘against this team this is what I am going to do’ but when you have uncertainty with injuries that is tricky”, Arteta told the media.
“But when it comes down to reacting against a difficult situation, we don’t feel sorry for ourselves – we face it. But the possibility is tomorrow – let’s have a beautiful day on Sunday when we really perform.”
“We are who we are and we will demand the game in the manner that we want. This has to be entrenched in our team. We are a team that knows how good we are as well and how difficult we can be for the opponents. And having that ruthless mentality is something that I love.”
Mikel Arteta is certainly in a tough spot at the moment. While facing Premier League toppers Liverpool, you’d want to go all out with your best squad but the Spanish gaffer isn’t being afforded the same luxury.
Martin Ødegaard hasn’t arrived yet and Bukayo Saka remains doubtful for the clash. Jurrien Timber is on the same page as Saka whereas Riccardo Calafiori will be missing the match.
William Saliba’s suspension against Bournemouth has led to a three-match ban and he’ll be starting his time against The Reds. If Timber remains out Arteta will be without his preferred defence in the hands of Mohamed Salah.
