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Arsenal vs Leverkusen: Team News and Confirmed Lineups

Arsenal Team News & Predicted Lineup vs Liverpool for January 8

Arsenal ended the first half of the 2025/26 season in winning form, and began 2026 in the same fashion, grinding out a hard-fought 3-2 victory against Bournemouth. The Gunners have suffered only two defeats in all competitions this season, one of which was against Liverpool, and it’s now time for the return fixture at the Emirates. Can Mikel Arteta’s men get their revenge? Or will Liverpool get the double over the Gunners? Here is our Arsenal predicted lineup for this 20:00 GMT kick-off slot.

Arsenal Predicted Lineup & Team News vs Liverpool

How Arsenal Have Lined Up Recently

The Gunners find themselves five points clear at the top of the table. Last time out against Bournemouth, Arteta’s men found themselves 1-0 down due to a rare defensive error. They lined up in their normal 4-3-3 formation, with David Raya starting in goal, with Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel, and Piero Hincapie completing the defence.

Read More: Best Arsenal Players to Wear the Number 14 Jersey Ever

In midfield, Arteta selected Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, and Martin Zubimendi. In the wide areas, it was Gabriel Martinelli and Noni Madueke supporting the out-of-form Viktor Gyokeres.

Arsenal Team News

In the pre-match press conference, Arteta was asked about the availability of Riccardo Calafiori and Cristhian Mosquera, and said: “No, they are out again.”

Discussing the impending return of Kai Havertz, Arteta said:

“We are obviously monitoring his load; he has been out for a long time for two different reasons, and he is very close. He trained this morning again, and hopefully we are going to have him available in the best version of Kai Havertz.”

Arsenal Predicted Lineup

GK: Raya
LB: Hincapie
CB: Gabriel
CB: Saliba
RB: Timber
CM: Zubimendi
CM: Rice
CM: Odegaard
LW: Martinelli
ST: Gyokeres
RW: Saka

Featured Image Credit:

IMAGO / PA Images

About Ricky Carroll, Editor

Ricky Carroll stands as a prominent figure in sports journalism, currently serving as the **LWOS World Football Editor**. His comprehensive coverage has enabled him to bring news and analysis to football fans. Beyond the pitch, Ricky demonstrates exceptional expertise for the Sweet Science, dissecting events for **Big Fight Weekend**. His analytical prowess allows him to delve deep into tactics, performance, and the broader narratives shaping both sports. With a history of delivering incisive commentary and compelling analyses, Ricky brings a rich tapestry of experience to every piece. His dedication to accuracy and deep understanding of the intricacies of world football and combat sports are evident in his well-researched contributions. He remains steadfast in his commitment to producing high-quality, authoritative content that informs and enlightens his audience.

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