Premier League2 hours ago2 minute read

Liverpool Front Line Stalls in Home Defeat to Arsenal

Liverpool failed to register a shot on target in their 1-0 loss to Arsenal as their expensive attack continues to struggle in the Premier League.

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

Historic low at Anfield

Arsenal earned a 1-0 win at Anfield after Kai Havertz scored in the 16th minute. Liverpool failed to record a single shot on target at home in a Premier League match for the first time since 2003-04.

Mikel Arteta described the statistic as remarkable after the match. Arsenal defended well to secure their clean sheet, though Liverpool still pushed forward. The hosts had 28 touches in the opposition penalty area during the first half, which is the most on record for any team against Arsenal in that opening period.

Florian Wirtz hit the crossbar with a free kick, while Alexis Mac Allister put a header over the bar. Jurrien Timber also pulled Alexander Isak's shirt inside the box, but no penalty was given.

High price tag with few goals

Liverpool have scored just four goals at Anfield in five home league matches this season. That ties their lowest total at this stage from the 1913-14 and 2012-13 seasons. They have failed to score at home against Fulham, Manchester City, and Arsenal.

The front line cost over $500 million combined. Alexander Isak, Bradley Barcola, and Florian Wirtz cost £354 million or $462 million across recent transfer windows. Cody Gakpo added another £37 million or $49 million in 2023.

Despite that spending, the attack is not producing. Liverpool have scored 11 goals in nine league games, which is two fewer than Ipswich Town. The team ranks 19th in the league with only seven big chances created this season.

European goals vs domestic form

The picture is different in the Champions League, where Liverpool have scored 12 goals in three games against LASK, Villarreal, and Atletico Madrid. Manager Andoni Iraola noted that the difference comes down to the style of opposition rather than the competition itself.

Midfield balance remains a challenge for Iraola. Teenager Trey Nyoni made his first league start against Arsenal at 19 years old. He completed 53 passes and 14 line breaking passes while playing in deep midfield.

What it means for the next game

Fenerbahce vs Liverpool (Champions League, Wed, 04 Nov): Fenerbahce win 24%, draw 21%, Liverpool win 54%; expected goals 1.44 to 2.20. Our safest pick: Liverpool or Draw.

Crystal Palace vs Liverpool (Premier League, Sun, 08 Nov): Crystal Palace win 20%, draw 23%, Liverpool win 58%; expected goals 1.07 to 1.97. Our safest pick: Over 1.5 goals.