By Liverpool and Arsenal, two Premier League heavyweights, are set to clash on Wednesday in Philadelphia as they ramp up preparations for the 2024-25 season. Both teams, who finished third and second respectively in the previous Premier League campaign, are expected to be Manchester City’s closest challengers in the upcoming season.
The match, scheduled for July 31 at 7:30 p.m. ET at Lincoln Financial Field, will be broadcast on ESPN and streamed live on Fubo. Bookmakers have set the odds at Liverpool +150, Draw +230, and Arsenal +150.
This encounter marks new Liverpool manager Arne Slot’s first test against top-level Premier League opposition since taking over from Jurgen Klopp. The Dutchman will be keen to demonstrate that his side can close the gap on Arsenal, who have gone unbeaten in their last four league meetings with the Reds.
Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta, are looking to prove that the third time’s the charm in their title race. Both the manager and players have emphasized the importance of a strong start to chase down Manchester City. Their recent victory over Manchester United in Los Angeles has already set a positive tone for their pre-season campaign.
Liverpool, the last Premier League club yet to make a signing this season, are still awaiting the return of several key players who participated in the Copa America and Euros. Andrew Robertson has joined the squad in the US but won’t feature due to an injury sustained with Scotland. Curtis Jones, who limped off against Real Betis, may also be rested.
Slot has been experimenting with his system and personnel, deploying Harvey Elliott and Dominik Szoboszlai as makeshift forwards in their US opener. This setup may continue given the absence of Cody Gakpo and Darwin Nunez.
Arsenal’s new signing Riccardo Calafiori could make his debut, while Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Gabriel Magalhaes might start. However, Euro 2024 finalists Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Aaron Ramsdale, and David Raya have not yet joined the squad.
The match presents intriguing tactical questions for both sides. Will Liverpool’s experimental forward line continue to evolve? How will Arsenal integrate their new signings and returning players?
Given the current squad compositions and recent form, Arsenal might have an edge in this pre-season clash. A predicted scoreline of Liverpool 1, Arsenal 2 seems plausible, but as with all pre-season encounters, the result is less important than the performances and fitness gains for both teams.
This high-profile friendly not only offers fans an early glimpse of their teams in action but also provides valuable insights into how these Premier League giants are shaping up for the challenges of the upcoming season.
