Liverpool team news v Arsenal: Hugo Ekitike misses out as Slot makes one change in midfield

After beginning 2026 with two frustrating draws, Liverpool face the considerable challenge of taking on Premier League leaders Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium tonight.

Just eight days into the New Year, it’s actually the Reds’ final top-flight match in London in this campaign, having won two, drawn one and lost three so far in the capital, and plenty of pundits are expecting the latter tally to increase to four by 10pm.

Arne Slot’s side have been sweating on the fitness of Hugo Ekitike in the lead-up to this fixture, with their top scorer for the season so far missing the 2-2 draw at Fulham last weekend due to a minor injury.

With Alexander Isak sidelined and Mo Salah away at the Africa Cup of Nations, Liverpool could certainly do with having the Frenchman available for such a difficult game, but has he made it in time to feature?

Liverpool starting XI to face Arsenal

Slot makes just one change in personnel from the side which began the 2-2 draw at Fulham last weekend.

Alisson Becker is again between the sticks, and the back four of Conor Bradley, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate and Milos Kerkez is unchanged.

Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister continue in midfield, while Jeremie Frimpong comes in on the right-hand side of attack. Dominik Szoboszlai is set to duly move to a more central role, with Florian Wirtz likely to line up on the left, with Curtis Jones dropping to the bench.

Cody Gakpo leads the line again, with Ekitike unfortunately not deemed fit enough to make the matchday squad. Slot will look to Federico Chiesa and Rio Ngumoha to add attacking impetus off the bench if required.

You can view the Liverpool starting XI and substitutes below, via @LFC on X:

Team news is in for tonight's clash against Arsenal #ARSLIV

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 8, 2026

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