Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has explained his decision to include Christos Tzolis in the starting line-up for the Premier League meeting with Liverpool, despite the forward having only recently recovered from a hamstring injury. According to a report by the Evening Standard on Sunday, November 1, 2026, the Spaniard was encouraged by the player's physical condition during training and believed he was capable of making a contribution at Anfield.

Arteta’s selection proved significant as Arsenal secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Liverpool. Kai Havertz scored the only goal of the contest in the first half, helping the Gunners claim their first Premier League win at Anfield since 2012 and collect an important result against the reigning champions.

Tzolis’ presence from the beginning attracted attention because he had spent approximately a month out of action after sustaining a hamstring problem while representing Greece during the international break. Given the length of his absence and the demands of the fixture, his inclusion represented a calculated decision by the Arsenal manager.

The forward responded with an encouraging display before being replaced. He came close to opening his account when his effort forced Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker into an impressive low save. Tzolis also delivered a dangerous ball towards the far post, creating another threatening moment for the visitors.

Speaking after the match, Arteta said the attacker had shown excellent energy and fitness levels during training sessions, giving the coaching staff confidence in his readiness. The manager also revealed that Eberechi Eze had experienced a fitness concern before the game, which influenced the available selection options.

Arteta praised Arsenal’s medical and performance departments for their work in preparing players to cope with a demanding schedule. With matches frequently taking place every three days, the manager explained that maintaining players’ fitness and managing their recovery are essential responsibilities.

He added that Tzolis was eager to remain on the pitch until the final whistle. However, the coaching staff eventually decided to substitute him after considering his workload and physical condition. Although Arteta acknowledged that starting a player who had only recently returned from injury involved an element of risk, he was satisfied with the forward’s contribution.

Eze’s situation also explained his absence from the starting eleven. The England international was not considered ready to begin the contest, but his condition had improved sufficiently for him to be named among the substitutes. His availability provided Arteta with another attacking option if the match required changes later on.

Arsenal’s victory was particularly important because it followed a disappointing exit from the Carabao Cup against League Two side Fleetwood Town. The Gunners were eliminated after losing a penalty shootout, having failed to convert several opportunities during the contest.

Arteta expressed considerable disappointment with that performance, highlighting the difference between the teams’ attacking statistics. Arsenal recorded 27 attempts on goal, while Fleetwood managed only one effort on target. Despite their attacking advantage, the Gunners could not secure qualification.

The response against Liverpool therefore offered some encouragement to the manager and his players. Arsenal displayed greater defensive organisation, discipline and determination to protect their advantage and leave Anfield with all three points.

The result provided a timely boost to the club’s confidence and strengthened their position in the league campaign. Arteta’s explanation also offered insight into the fitness considerations behind his selection, particularly the decisions involving Tzolis and Eze.