Liverpool could be missing striker Ekitiké when they face Arsenal this Thursday (8) at the Emirates Stadium in London. The match, part of the 21st round of the Premier League, kicks off at 8 pm UK time and carries significant implications for the Reds’ top-four ambitions.
Arne Slot Confirms Ekitiké’s Injury Concerns
In a pre-match press conference, Liverpool manager Arne Slot addressed the fitness of Ekitiké, who missed the weekend’s clash against Fulham. According to Transfermarkt, the striker has been dealing with muscle problems.
“He hasn’t trained with us yet. We’ll see if he can play. I think two or three days ago, when we played against Fulham, I said he wouldn’t be out for long, but because the games happen so quickly, he’s going between training sessions. So it takes him an extra day or two to recover,” Slot explained.
Liverpool Aim to Secure Top-Four Position
Liverpool enter the match with 34 points, just three ahead of Chelsea and Manchester United, who occupy fifth and sixth in the table. Even a draw against Arsenal would help maintain their position in the Premier League’s top four.
Despite being 14 points behind Arsenal, the Reds see the match as an opportunity to react and strengthen their campaign. Forward Cody Gakpo emphasized the team’s mentality ahead of the clash:
“That’s the mentality. That’s how it should be. We need to take it one game at a time and keep climbing. That’s what we’re working on together every day. Even if the results are disappointing sometimes, we remain united.”
Possible Lineup and Tactical Notes
According to Whoscored, Gakpo could lead Liverpool’s attack alongside Florian Wirtz and Szoboszlai, forming a dynamic front three. Slot highlighted the importance of the match both for the standings and for demonstrating the team’s capabilities.
“The game itself is very important, but also considering our situation to show what we can do,” Gakpo said.
Slot Praises Arsenal’s Strength
Liverpool’s coach also acknowledged the challenges posed by Arsenal, noting the London side’s established style of play and defensive solidity. “The abundance of qualities is perhaps their greatest asset, or practically the fact that they have no weaknesses. That’s why they rarely concede goals,” Slot observed.
