Mikel Arteta fires warning to Liverpool with eight-word Arsenal promise after beating Shakhtar Donetsk

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Arsenal will need to raise their game when they host Liverpool in Sunday’s Premier League clash.

Arsenal have been short of their best in recent outings. Mikel Arteta’s side saw their unbeaten start to the season ended by Bournemouth on Saturday, and were fortunate to scrape a 1-0 Champions League win against Shakhtar Donetsk on Tuesday evening. 

The Gunners will face an even sterner test when they return to Premier League action this weekend, as Liverpool are flying high at the moment and currently sit at the top of the table.

Not only have the North London club been below par in recent outings, they will also be significantly weakened when they take on the Reds.

Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka are injured, depriving the Gunners of their two most creative players. 

On top that, William Saliba is suspended for this fixture having been sent off against the Cherries, and Riccardo Calafiori’s fitness will now be in doubt too after he picked up a knock against Shakhtar Donetsk.

Despite these pressing concerns, Arteta has made no secret of his confidence in the build up to this match.

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Mikel Arteta sends warning ahead of Arsenal vs Liverpool

The Spanish coach was quizzed about how he will prepare his side to face Liverpool in his press conference after the win over Shakhtar Donetsk.

The Arsenal manager made assurances that his squad will be given time to rest and regain their energy ahead of the weekend.

As quoted by the club’s official website, Arteta then added: “Believe me, on Sunday we will be flying.”

What Arsenal must do against Liverpool

Arteta’s greatest concern will be over how his side have struggled to create chances recently. Arsenal need to play on the front foot on Sunday. They must take the game to Liverpool and not surrender territory. 

It is also vital that the Gunners get their disciplinary issues under control. Arteta has already seen three of his players sent off during Premier League matches this season, and that is a trend that cannot be allowed to continue.

If Arsenal can rediscover some of their cutting edge in the final third, and avoid any more sending offs, then they have what it takes to overcome the challenge that Liverpool present.