Liverpool host Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday in the first real blockbuster of the Premier League season – and Gary Neville believes the Gunners are arriving at the perfect time to land an early title blow.
Both sides have won their opening two matches, but while Arsenal have looked assured in victories over Manchester United (1-0) and Leeds (5-0), Arne Slot’s Liverpool have been far less convincing. A chaotic 4-2 win against Bournemouth was followed by a last-gasp 3-2 triumph at Newcastle, raising questions over their defensive stability.
Neville predicts Arsenal win
Speaking on The Overlap, Neville was clear: “I fancy Arsenal to win. I think Arsenal will score two from set-pieces – it’ll be the land of the giants. Liverpool will score one, but Arsenal will win 2-1.”
The former Manchester United defender highlighted Arsenal’s physical presence and ability from dead-ball situations as a key factor.
Split pundit opinion
Neville’s prediction comes in contrast to Jamie Carragher, who earlier tipped Liverpool to beat Arsenal 2-1 despite criticising their display at St James’ Park. Arsenal legend Ian Wright, meanwhile, agreed with Neville, backing his old club to edge it 2-1 if Liverpool defend as they did against Bournemouth.
Van Dijk rallies Reds
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk admitted improvements are needed if the champions are to overcome Arsenal. “We’re playing a fantastic team with a great manager,” he said. “We have a week now to prepare and we have to be ready. The Premier League has no easy games.”
With Arsenal chasing their first title in over two decades and Liverpool intent on defending theirs, Sunday’s clash at Anfield could be a crucial early marker in the season’s race.
