The 2024-25 Premier League season is just around the corner, and two of the title contenders, Liverpool and Arsenal, are gearing up for the campaign with a clash in Philadelphia on Wednesday. Both sides are looking to challenge Manchester City for the top spot, and they have started their US tours with impressive wins. The Gunners defeated Manchester United in Los Angeles, while Liverpool overcame Real Betis in Pittsburgh.
This match marks a first encounter with Premier League opposition for Liverpool's new manager, Arne Slot, who took over from Jurgen Klopp last summer. Slot will be eager to prove his side can close the gap on Arsenal, who have dominated the last four league meetings between the teams.
While Slot's arrival suggests a rebuild at Anfield, Arteta's Arsenal is a team on the rise. Having finished second last season, the young Gunners are determined to go one better this time around and have emphasised the importance of a strong start. A win over Liverpool would further bolster their confidence and momentum ahead of the new season.
Where and when to catch the action:
Date: Wednesday, 31st July
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Location: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
Watch: ESPN
Live Stream: Fubo (try for free)
Odds: Liverpool +150, Draw +230, Arsenal +150
Team News:
Liverpool: The Reds are yet to make any new signings this summer, with Slot awaiting the return of several players who were involved in the Copa America and the Euros. Notably, Andrew Robertson has rejoined the squad but won't feature due to an injury sustained with Scotland. Curtis Jones is also a doubt after limping off against Real Betis. Slot is still experimenting with his formations and personnel, deploying a unique approach with Harvey Elliott and Dominik Szoboszlai playing in advanced roles in their US opener. Cody Gakpo and Darwin Nunez are yet to return to the squad.
Possible Liverpool XI: Kelleher; Bradley, Quansah, Van den Berg, Tsimikas; Endo, Bajcetic; Elliott, Szoboszlai; Salah, Carvalho.
Arsenal: New signing Riccardo Calafiori joined the squad on Monday and could be in contention for a place in the starting lineup. Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Gabriel Magalhaes are also options for Arteta. The Euro 2024 finalists, Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Aaron Ramsdale, and David Raya, are still absent.
The current squad composition presents intriguing options for Arteta. Will the promising Ethan Nwaneri retain his starting spot? If Havertz comes in, will he play centrally with Jesus out wide? What about Fabio Vieira? Arteta has a wealth of talent at his disposal.
Possible Arsenal XI: Hein; White, Timber, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Partey, Odegaard, Vieira; Jesus, Havertz, Martinelli.
Prediction:
Arsenal's superior experience and the return of key players could give them the edge in this pre-season encounter.
Pick: Liverpool 1, Arsenal 2
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