Mikel Arteta is probably even more excited about Anfield as it has caused his team major problems over the years. The team remained at the top of the Christmas League, although it did not go smoothly.But it wasn’t a decisive result in terms of the title race (which would have happened in December anyway). I think it’s a sign that both teams can keep their distance in the fight for the crown. Jurgen Klopp called it a “positive reality check” in that regard. Klopp, in particular, knows his midfield has come a long way from last season, when he was able to cope with Arsenal’s record signing Declan Rice alongside Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz.
Jurgen Klopp has already identified Thiago as his successor at Liverpool.As January approaches, all eyes will be on Liverpool’s decision to enter the transfer market. Defense is the area of greatest need, but midfield is still controversial. The engine room underwent a major overhaul over the summer with the addition of Alexis McAllister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch. However, they have failed to find a long-term successor for Fabinho after their bid for Moises Caicedo fell through. Endo has done very well when called upon and has adapted to his role in the team in recent weeks. But surprisingly it was Mc Allister himself who made his stand when it was convenient. Until Andre Trindade became irrelevant as a transfer target. Indeed, McAllister would be Klopp’s natural successor with his rich defensive skills as well as the ability to control the tempo and create situations.
Declan Rice meets his matchArsenal showed their commitment to the business last summer, spending $133m (€105m/€121m). In fairness to the Englishman, he is one of those blockbuster signings that went a long way in justifying the big spend and looks to be a transformative presence in Arteta’s midfield. But you’d be hard-pressed to guess which team at Anfield has the $133m defensive midfielder. The rice was delicious but went well with the Wataru Endo. He’s had some of his best performances in a LIverpool shirt and we seem to be talking about it more and more. Endo is really adapting to the Premier League and has been incredibly effective in disrupting midfield play against the league leaders. If there was any doubt, Klopp now knows that another no. 6 should not be on his shopping list
Liverpool would beat Arsenal by the same score on another day. On the other hand, defeat was also a very real possibility.Even if things don’t go Liverpool or Arsenal’s way, a draw is a sure sign that this is a deserved result.
