Premier League1 hour ago2 minute read

Iraola Cools Title Talk Before Arsenal Clash

Andoni Iraola says it is too early to call Liverpool title contenders ahead of their match with Arsenal at Anfield.

The EagleEyeOdds deskWritten from the match data, checked against our model before it goes out

Iraola rejects early title talk

Jamie Carragher recently suggested that Liverpool have been going under the radar this season and could emerge as Arsenal's closest challengers. A win on Sunday at Anfield would close the gap on league leaders Manchester City to three points. Arsenal currently sit second in the Premier League table.

Andoni Iraola is not getting carried away with the talk. Speaking ahead of the game, he explained that looking at the standings in October is far too early. Iraola believes the true reference point arrives halfway through the season once every club has played each other once. He noted that while it is good for supporters to have high expectations, the team must take things one game at a time and focus on improving.

Demanding battle against Arteta

Iraola expects a very demanding contest against Mikel Arteta's side. He praised Arsenal for their quality and highlighted how well their players work together on the pitch. Even so, Iraola expressed belief in his squad and hopes a strong Anfield atmosphere will help them reach the level needed to win.

The match also brings another familiar face on the opposing bench. Iraola faced Inigo Perez and Xabi Alonso last week, making Arteta yet another friend he will come up against. Iraola mentioned that it is always nice to spend five or ten minutes catching up after the game, but he knows Arsenal will push Liverpool to their limit.

Potential boost on the injury front

Liverpool could welcome back some important names for the weekend fixture. Dominik Szoboszlai and Victor Munoz are making steady progress in their recoveries from hamstring and knee injuries.

Iraola confirmed that both players have a chance to be involved on Sunday. While their status remains unconfirmed, he pointed out that the coaching staff still have two days left to assess their fitness before making a final call.

What it means for the next game

Liverpool vs Arsenal (Premier League, Sun, 01 Nov): Liverpool win 32%, draw 28%, Arsenal win 40%; expected goals 1.19 to 1.38. Our safest pick: Under 3.5 goals.

Fenerbahce vs Liverpool (Champions League, Wed, 04 Nov): Fenerbahce win 27%, draw 23%, Liverpool win 50%; expected goals 1.44 to 2.02. Our safest pick: Liverpool or Draw.