Liverpool and Arsenal have shown during the first two rounds why many see them as the two main favorites this season - they will now be level on points with each other with six points.
The derby teams that are expected to fight for the title until the end will arrive in August - will anyone remain at their best after that and send a message to the other rivals already now?
Champion vs. runner-up, the first act of this season's big battle, is scheduled for 17.30:XNUMX p.m. at Anfield.
Arsenal are off to a flying start, although they didn't shine in the first round against Manchester United, they celebrated then (1:0), but also in the next when they "smashed" Leeds (5:0). And while the team Mikel Arteta without conceding a goal, winning points, guys Arnea Slota They achieved two victories in spectacular finishes - against Bournemouth (4:2) and Newcastle (3:2).
SLOT: IT'S NOT CRITICAL, BUT IT'S BETTER NOT TO LOSE POINTS
It is clear that today's derby will not decide anything yet, but we are always in a better mood waiting for the championship to continue with a victory against our main rival for the top spot.
- It is possible to lose a few points in this part of the season and remain competitive. But, of course - it is always best not to lose points. Especially not against a team you are fighting for the title with, who are hungry for trophies - said Slot at a press conference.
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Liverpool have not lost to Arsenal in their last matches at Anfield - the Gunners have been waiting for a triumph since 2012.
Although the defense is still far from ideal - which is why a comeback is expected Andy Robertson in the starting 11 - what can make the Dutch expert happy is that at the start his team is not completely dependent on Mohamed Salaha, like during last season.
Ugo Ekitika has scored in every match since he arrived, and they are deciding the matches Federico Chiesa and a teenager Rio Engumoa.
- Ekitike already has a huge impact, not only because of his goals, but also in initiating actions. He still has a little to improve his off-ball game, but we expect him to get better and better - added Slot.
ARTETA: SOMEONE HAS TO TAKE THEIR CROWN
The Dutchman wants three out of three before the first break, and then more are expected to arrive. Alexander Isaac i Mark Gei, while his colleague Arteta is already struggling with injuries. Bukayo Saka i Kai Havertz They will definitely skip the derby, and the question is whether they will perform. Martin Edegord.
- It's only the start of the season and we're without three important players. However, that's our reality, a truly unfortunate situation - that's why we insist every year that we need breadth in our squad in order to fight for the title - Arteta believes.
And, the width should be brought to him by reinforcements like Viktor Djekeres, Martina Zubimendija, Eberechi Ezea... In any case, the Basque expert knows what he needs to do at Anfield, but also later.
- The favorite is always the team that was the champion last season. But someone has to take the crown from them, and that's what we will try to do, like the others - Arteta pointed out.
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Liverpool have not lost to Arsenal in their last matches at Anfield - the Gunners have been waiting for a triumph since 2012.
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