Arsenal-Liverpool match takeaways

Takeaways from the first heavyweight clash of this Premier League season after Liverpool emerged triumphant at the Emirates.

In possibly one of the most exciting and nerve-wracking open weekend matches in recent history, fans had a great glimpse at what this Premier League season has in store. Arsenal and Liverpool matched well, changing momentum rapidly and always pressuring. After claiming an early lead through Theo Walcott, Arsenal conceded 4 goals as Liverpool dominated the opening 25 minutes of the second half, then coming back to make it close for the last 20, ending at 4-3 to Liverpool.

This action-packed match was plentiful in positive moments and criticism for both sides. Both squads are still vulnerable defensively yet fierce in the attacking third.

Liverpool

Summer Transfers:

Jürgen Klopp’s summer transfer business was on full display this afternoon, as nearly all his major signings were involved in the match. Sadio Mané looked lively throughout the troubling first half, creating some of the only chances that Liverpool had in the first 45. Mané capped his day by scoring a wonderful solo goal in the 63rd minute.

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Georginio Wijnaldum, who had a slow start, helped assist to Adam Lallana’s goal to put Liverpool ahead, making his presence better felt after the break. Central defender Ragnar Klavan, also made his competitive debut for the Reds and was a bright spot of a still shaky defense, keeping the center of the pitch strong to keep Arsenal attackers at bay for most of the match. Klavan made a strong case for a starting role when Joel Matip and Mamadou Sakho return.

However, left back remains a glaring hole for the Liverpool defense. Alberto Moreno was the weakest link in what looked like a well oiled machine, conceding a very unnecessary penalty kick (saved by Mignolet), followed by shoddy defending only a minute after the penalty save to allow Walcott a nearly unchallenged goal. If Liverpool want to be contenders this season, they must be willing to splash some cash for a better left back. Liverpool fans hope to sell Mario Balotelli and Christian Benteke, so money may be available for a transfer.

Keys to the Season:

Liverpool also had a very weak first half, being overrun by the Arsenal midfield at every opportunity. Lallana, Coutinho, Henderson and Wijnaldum were all non-factors for the majority of the opening half. Arsenal dominated possession in the midfield and were rewarded with countless opportunities, often gifted easy balls in the middle of the pitch. Future clashes with strong midfields (i.e. Manchester United, Chelsea, etc.) may not go well if Liverpool cannot put together strong first halves.

This was another star performance for Philippe Coutinho, despite a slow start. The Brazilian had yet another stunner goal on the brink of halftime, salvaging a weak first half team performance to go into the second half level. It was also his creative play to set up Wijnaldum for a cross to Lallana’s goal, and good field intelligence to time his run perfectly to get on the end of a Nathaniel Clyne cross for his second goal of the match. If Coutinho can consistently play as well as he did against Arsenal, it will be an extraordinary season for him and Liverpool.

Arsenal

Summer Transfers:

Often a shrewd spender when it comes to the transfer market, Arsene Wenger has been criticized for failure to bring in more talent. This year is no different, and Wenger has only made one major move for Granit Xhaka. Xhaka brought some energy back to the Arsenal side that had been deflated by Liverpool’s possession in the second half. He was persistent and constantly trying to win possession for his side.

However, Arsenal will need to have more players incoming if they hope to compete in both league and European competitions. Although Callum Chambers and Rob Holden played well in the first half, they fell apart in the second half. Once Liverpool applied constant pressure, the young center backs showed their lack of experience, allowing Liverpool to gain a 4-1 advantage. Arsenal fans will hope for the rapid return of Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker, or even the arrival of new options.

Keys to the Season:

It’s looking likely that this season will be similar to many of Arsenal’s previous seasons, in many respects. Somehow, Theo Walcott showed both sides of the argument for his place in the team within a minute. After being awarded a penalty, Walcott placed it within reach of Mignolet to be easily saved. Then, shortly after, he scored on a very well placed shot to the far corner. Arsenal will need to get some consistency out of Walcott if they want to be successful this year.

It also would not be Arsenal if they did not have injury problems. They have been one of the most plagued squads for years, and it appears that this year will keep with that trend. Mesut Özil is still out with a hip injury and was dearly missed in the midfield.