Liverpool vs Arsenal – Combined XI ahead of Anfield clash | OneFootball

Liverpool and Arsenal meet in the Premier League this afternoon as last season’s top two go head-to-head at Anfield.

Both have maximum points after two games, and a victory for either would send a statement about their title credentials.

Ahead of the clash, we’ve put together our Combined XI from two of the Premier League’s top teams.

Liverpool vs Arsenal – Combined XI

Goalkeeper: Alisson – Liverpool

Arguably, the two best shot-stoppers in the league meet at Anfield today. David Raya has been outstanding since his arrival at Arsenal, but there’s an argument that Alisson is the world’s best. Their personal battle could be decisive in Sunday’s showdown.

Right-back: Jurrien Timber – Arsenal

An underrated part of the division’s best defence. The Dutchman epitomises cool in possession, is tenacious in his defensive work, and adaptable wherever needed.

Last week’s two-goal performance against Leeds was a highlight for a player who has been a model of consistency in North London.

Centre-back: William Saliba – Arsenal

Perhaps the heir to the throne as the Premier League’s premier centre-back. The Frenchman has earned three consecutive inclusions in the PFA Team of the Year and, at 24, is still learning. His ceiling is sky-high.

Centre-back: Virgil van Dijk – Liverpool

Virgil van Dijk has set the standard for centre-backs in recent years. The dominant Dutchman continues to be a force for Liverpool, even as he approaches the twilight of his time at the top. He has won more aerial duels and made more clearances than any other player in the Premier League across the opening two matches.

Left-back: Riccardo Calafiori – Arsenal

One of the more open positions on the team sheet. Milos Kerkez is yet to show his best since arriving at Liverpool, while Calafiori has ousted Myles Lewis-Skelly from the Arsenal team. The Italian is a real threat going forward with marauding surges into dangerous areas.

Midfield: Ryan Gravenberch – Liverpool

Liverpool will be glad to have Ryan Gravenberch back in their ranks, with the Dutchman getting better and better.

He popped up with a crucial goal in Monday’s win at Newcastle and continues to perform with a real maturity at the base of the club’s midfield.

Midfield: Declan Rice – Arsenal

The heartbeat of the Arsenal team and, arguably, a captain without the armband. Rice’s game has improved immeasurably in an Arsenal shirt, where he’s added goals and set-piece quality to his trademark box-to-box drive.

Midfield: Florian Wirtz – Liverpool

It’s no doubt been an underwhelming start for Florian Wirtz at Liverpool, as the German adapts to the Premier League. But there’s a reason that Liverpool, whose talent ID rarely falters, decided to break the bank for the midfielder. Wirtz is a wonderful footballer who will become a key part of Arne Slot’s side.

Right-wing: Mohamed Salah – Liverpool

Mohamed Salah has a fine record against Arsenal, scoring 11 times in 16 previous appearances against the Gunners. Then again, Salah has a fine record against pretty much everyone. The Egyptian is an output machine. A record-breaking third PFA Player of the Year award in 2024/25 was richly deserved.

Left-wing: Cody Gakpo – Liverpool

Some suggested Cody Gakpo’s place in the Liverpool team was under threat this season. The Dutchman has answered those doubters emphatically. He has a goal and two assists in three games, with only Jack Grealish and Joao Pedro – each of who have played a game more – involved in more Premier League goals.

Forward: Viktor Gyokeres – Arsenal

A real toss-up. Hugo Ekitike has certainly passed the eye-test a little more than Viktor Gyokeres to date, in the battle of the new centre-forwards.

It’s difficult to ignore Gyokeres’ goal record, however, after the Swedish striker smashed home 97 in 102 games for Sporting Lisbon.

After opening his account with a brace against Leeds, the 27-year-old will want to have a decisive impact on a huge game.

Read – Liverpool vs Arsenal – Match Preview and Team News

See more – The biggest loan fees ever

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