Mikel Arteta could make eight changes to his Arsenal starting lineup when the Gunners face Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, with Kai Havertz and Riccardo Calafiori among the players attracting attention ahead of the Premier League encounter.

According to a report by Football London on Thursday, 29 October 2026, Arsenal are expected to make significant adjustments following their shock Carabao Cup fourth-round elimination against Fleetwood Town.

The Gunners suffered a disappointing defeat on Tuesday, missing the opportunity to progress in the competition.

They must now regroup quickly as they prepare for a crucial meeting with Liverpool in the Premier League title race.

Arteta has an additional day of recovery compared with Liverpool, despite Arsenal's travelling commitments following their trip to Blackpool.

The Spanish manager has also promised to respond positively to the supporters who travelled to watch the Fleetwood defeat.

"We need to take it now on the chin," Arteta said. "We are out of the competition, we’re very sad for all the people as well here who came to watch the game - I wanted to give them the victory. Now we need to recover and get ready for Anfield."

David Raya is expected to retain his place in goal, while Piero Hincapie could continue at left-back amid uncertainty surrounding Calafiori's availability. Gabriel Magalhaes, Ezri Konsa and Ben White are also tipped to feature in a reshuffled defence.

In midfield, Declan Rice could return alongside Myles Lewis-Skelly, provided the England international is fit. Bruno Guimaraes is another option if Rice is unavailable, having played limited minutes against Fleetwood.

Havertz could lead Arsenal's attack against Liverpool, potentially leaving Viktor Gyokeres on the bench. Despite his relatively slow start to the season, the German forward's movement, link-up play and ability to hold possession could prove valuable against Liverpool's high press.

Noni Madueke is also expected to return if he recovers in time. Should the winger remain unavailable, Arteta could consider alternative attacking combinations involving Eberechi Eze and Mikel Merino.

The predicted Arsenal starting XI is David Raya; Piero Hincapie, Gabriel Magalhaes, Ezri Konsa, Ben White; Declan Rice, Myles Lewis-Skelly; Eberechi Eze, Martin Odegaard, Noni Madueke; Kai Havertz.