Mikel Arteta has declared that Arsenal are fully prepared to “disrupt” Premier League side Liverpool and extend their gap over Manchester City, Aston Villa, and the chasing pack to eight points when the two sides clash at the Emirates Stadium tonight (Thursday, January 8, 2026, 9:00 PM kick-off).
Speaking in his pre-match press conference on Wednesday , the Gunners boss admitted the magnitude of the fixture but insisted his team would approach it aggressively rather than cautiously.
“We know the importance of the game. Liverpool are one of the strongest team in Premier League today, but this is our home, our moment,” Arteta said. “We want to go for it, to impose our game, and if we do that with the intensity and quality we’ve shown recently, we can beat anyone.
“An eight-point gap would be significant at this stage, but we’re not thinking about the table right now – we’re thinking about winning the next match.”
Subscribe To The Best Team In Conservative, Business, Technology, Lifestyle And Digital News Realtime! support@ddnewsonline.com
Arsenal currently leading the Premier League with 48 points, five points ahead of Manchester City and Aston Villa, who are tied for second and third place. Liverpool is in fourth place, 14 points behind Arsenal. If Arsenal wins tonight’s game against Liverpool, they’ll be eight points clear of Manchester City and Liverpool, who play later tonight, and further ahead of Aston Villa and others.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, says they have “a point to prove” against Liverpool, hoping to maintain their commanding advantage at the summit. Liverpool’s manager, Arne Slot, acknowledges Arsenal’s lead but warns it’s still a long way to the end of the season.
Arteta confirmed positive team news:
Ben White is back in full training and available for selection after his hamstring issue.
Gabriel Magalhães and Kai Havertz are progressing well and could feature.
No new injury concerns, with the squad “in a good place physically and mentally.”
Subscribe To The Best Team In Conservative, Business, Technology, Lifestyle And Digital News Realtime! support@ddnewsonline.com
On Liverpool’s threat, Arteta added: “They are a top side with top players and a top manager. But we respect them, we don’t fear them. We have prepared meticulously and we’re ready to disrupt their rhythm.”
The match is a repeat of first leg, with Liverpool winning 1-0 at Anfield despite Arsenal’s dominance. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, says they have “a point to prove” and are banking on their home crowd to give them an edge.
The match is set to be a thrilling one, with Arsenal looking to bounce back and maintain their lead at the top of the Premier League table. Liverpool, on the other hand, will be looking to close the 14-point gap and make a statement in the title race.
By Ogungbayi Beedee Adeyemi
Send tips to: adeyemi@ddnewsonline.com | 08168555497