Liverpool were humbled in yesterday’s derby at Old Trafford as Manchester United pulled off a shock 2-1 win to move above the Reds in the table and claim their first win of the season. Arsenal watched on knowing that any result would be positive for their aims of the campaign.
What was obvious is the absence of both Thiago Alcantara and Fabinho, for the first half before being brought on at the break, leading to a serious loss in the middle third. Arsenal’s midfield has been excellent so far this season by comparison.
Thomas Partey, Granit Xhaka and Martin Odegaard have shone as a group and contributed to the nine goals scored in the opening three wins. However, Liverpool’s predicament sends a message, or at least it should, to technical director Edu and manager Mikel Arteta.
