Van Dijk admits Arsenal match will be a “big fight” for Liverpool

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Just Arsenal News

·5 January 2026

Van Dijk admits Arsenal match will be a “big fight” for Liverpool

Liverpool will be Arsenal’s next visitors, and the fixture presents the Gunners with an opportunity to respond to their defeat in the reverse meeting earlier in the season. In that match at Anfield, Arsenal were widely regarded as the better side and might have earned a draw had Liverpool not scored a superb free kick that ultimately decided the contest.

At this stage, Liverpool were enjoying an excellent run of form and sat at the top of the league table, with Arsenal close behind them. This time, the situation has shifted. Arsenal now lead the standings, while Liverpool is battling to secure a place in the top four. Despite that contrast, the Reds still possess several top-level players and remain capable of offering serious resistance.

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Arsenal Aware of the Challenge

Arsenal have been among the strongest teams in English football this season, delivering consistent performances across competitions. Even so, meetings with Liverpool are rarely straightforward. The Reds are determined to rediscover their rhythm quickly, knowing that further dropped points could leave them with too much ground to make up.

Last season’s encounters between the two sides ended without a winner, a reminder of how evenly matched and competitive these fixtures can be. Arsenal are fully aware that quality alone will not guarantee success and that concentration and intensity will be essential if they are to secure all three points at home.

(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Liverpool Confidence and Mindset

Ahead of the game, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk spoke about the challenge facing his side, as quoted by Liverpool Echo. He said, “Listen, we all know at home they are unbeaten this season, I think, in all competitions. So it is a nice challenge and we should be ready for a big fight.

“I am really looking forward to it and I think everyone should. That is the only way to try to get a result over there. There is no reason to not look forward to it, in my opinion. Another opportunity, but first recover and then we will focus on that.”

Van Dijk’s comments underline the respect Liverpool have for Arsenal’s home form, while also reflecting their determination to rise to the occasion. For Arsenal, the match represents both a test of their credentials and a chance to strengthen their position at the top of the table.

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