Iraola: Too early to check the table, Szoboszlai and Munoz in contention

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has revealed that Dominik Szoboszlai and Victor Munoz, who have both missed the last three matches through injury, are likely to be available for Sunday's blockbuster clash. The last two champions go head-to-head at Anfield, where Arsenal have failed to secure a league victory since 2012.

"I think Szoboszlai and Munoz have a chance for Sunday, but there are still two days to go.

"It is far too early to look at the league table. It will be a difficult match. We know Arsenal very well and we have to be ready. A tough test awaits us, but the great atmosphere will help. I hope we will be at our best level. It is still only October, so we are taking it game by game. I always say that only after we have faced every opponent at least once can we start looking at the standings. We are improving and developing.

"Mikel Arteta? Lately, I often see old friends in the opposition dugout. I know we face a demanding contest, so we need to show the best version of ourselves. Can the fans dream? It is great that they have high expectations and believe we can win. But if you ask me—it is still too early," the Spaniard said at his pre-match press conference.

During his tenure at Bournemouth, Iraola recorded three victories over Arsenal in their last four meetings. However, the Spaniard insists that past record counts for little now, noting that each team presents distinct challenges and requires different tactical solutions.

"With Bournemouth we got good results against Arsenal, but this is a different team and a different group of players, so we cannot take the same approach. We have different tools at our disposal—it comes down to winning duels, the aerial game, set-piece situations, the micro-battles across the pitch, and things like that. Arsenal are champions for a reason; they are in great shape and this will be a massive challenge for us.

"Winning helps a lot. It is great to have won five games in a row, even if only two of those were in the league. We know we still need to improve significantly, but that process is far more enjoyable when you are winning. Do I feel the Anfield energy? It is not just about the results. At Anfield, everyone can feel when the team is leaving everything on the pitch. Our supporters will be right there behind us, and their backing helps us immensely.

"Ultimately, it all comes down to creating more opportunities—they defend very well, we are in good form, every chance is precious, and what happens inside both boxes will be decisive," Iraola added.