Liverpool meet their match in Arsenal's David Raya

Barely three games into the 2025/26 season, Premier League fans are already treating Liverpool vs Arsenal as a potential match of the year.

The reigning champions, renowned for their scoring prowess, take on the runners-up, whose solidity at the back has been spearheaded by David Raya. This showdown also sees managers Arne Slot and Mikel Arteta, both advocates of progressive football, clash with contrasting tactical approaches.

Arsenal's early form highlights a perfect blend of defensive resilience and attacking promise. New additions Gyokeres and Madueke, alongside the anticipated debut of Eberechi Eze, give the Gunners more firepower upfront.

Yet it is Raya's heroics between the sticks that have made all the difference. The Spaniard leads the league with nine saves already, including eight against Manchester United at Old Trafford, where his stunning reflex denied Matheus Cunha and helped Arsenal secure a 1-0 victory.

Liverpool, by contrast, have been unstoppable in attack. Arne Slot's side have scored seven goals in just two games, including a 4-0 demolition of Bournemouth and a 3-2 win over Newcastle.

New signing Hugo Ekitike has impressed, scoring in both fixtures. But the Reds' defence has shown cracks, conceding twice in each match, meaning they will face a stern test against Raya's shot-stopping prowess at Anfield.

Despite Liverpool's firepower—anchored by Salah and Chiesa's late interventions against Bournemouth—Arsenal's defensive record remains untarnished.

Alongside Tottenham, they are the only top-flight side yet to concede a goal, showcasing the crucial role of their goalkeeper. Leeds United, for example, managed just one shot on target in a comfortable 1-0 victory, underscoring the Spaniard's consistency.

As the Gunners travel to Anfield, all eyes will be on David Raya. Can he maintain Arsenal's perfect defensive record against the league's most feared attack? This early-season clash promises to be a battle of firepower versus steel, with Raya potentially the deciding factor.