The 2024-25 Premier League gameweek nine season culminates in a thrilling encounter at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday afternoon, as title contenders Arsenal and Liverpool clash. Both English giants struggled to convince in their midweek Champions League matches, with Arsenal edging Shakhtar Donetsk 1-0 and Liverpool overcoming RB Leipzig by the same scoreline.

Arsenal’s recent away form had been impressive, but indiscipline cost them dearly against Bournemouth last weekend. William Saliba’s first-half red card ultimately led to a 2-0 defeat, ending the Gunners’ 12-game unbeaten Premier League run on the road. This loss also marked Arsenal’s first defeat in half a year. Mikel Arteta’s side missed the opportunity to top the rankings and now sit third, four points behind leaders Liverpool. However, the Gunners have won nine of their last 10 competitive matches at the Emirates, including five consecutive victories. Without the suspended Saliba, Arsenal’s win percentage drops significantly. Liverpool, under Arne Slot, continues to break records. The Reds have won eight consecutive matches across all competitions, including a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Chelsea. Mohamed Salah’s penalty and Curtis Jones’s late winner maintained Liverpool’s position at the summit. Slot has won all six away games in charge of Liverpool, conceding just two goals. A win on Sunday would move Liverpool to 24 points from nine games, matching their 2019-20 title-winning campaign.

Recent meetings between these two sides have favored Arsenal, with the Gunners winning their last two Premier League matches at the Emirates. However, Liverpool seeks to regain dominance. Arsenal faces defensive concerns, with Saliba suspended, Kieran Tierney out, Takehiro Tomiyasu injured, and Riccardo Calafiori’s condition uncertain. Martin Odegaard remains sidelined, while Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber’s availability is unclear. Liverpool’s Alisson Becker remains out with a thigh injury, while Harvey Elliott and Diogo Jota are also sidelined. Caoimhin Kelleher impressed in midweek, ensuring his starting spot. As the two title contenders clash, the Emirates Stadium will witness a battle of tactical wits and footballing prowess.

Will Arsenal overcome their defensive concerns, or will Liverpool’s attacking might prove decisive? The outcome will significantly impact the Premier League standings. Arsenal’s attacking trio of Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, and Bukayo Saka will look to test Liverpool’s defense. Havertz, in particular, has been impressive at home, scoring in five consecutive Premier League matches. Liverpool’s midfield trio of Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, and Ryan Gravenberch will seek to control the tempo.

The Reds’ attacking options, including Mohamed Salah and Darwin Nunez, will aim to capitalize on Arsenal’s defensive weaknesses. The match’s outcome will depend on the teams’ ability to adapt and respond to each other’s strategies. Both Arsenal and Liverpool have the quality and depth to secure victory.

Sunday’s clash at the Emirates Stadium will be an unforgettable encounter, with the Premier League title implications hanging in the balance. Will Arsenal halt Liverpool’s momentum, or will the Reds continue their winning streak?

Best tip: X2

Correct score: 1-1