Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has issued a passionate rallying cry to the club's supporters, urging them to create a formidable atmosphere at the Emirates Stadium for tonight's pivotal Premier League clash against Liverpool. The Gunners' boss emphasized the transformative power of a vocal home crowd as his team seeks to maintain their position at the summit of the league table.
Arteta's Plea for a 12th-Man Performance
Speaking ahead of the 8:00 p.m. WAT kick-off on 8 January 2026, Arteta left no doubt about the role he expects the fans to play. He called for unwavering support "for every ball" in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter. The manager drew from his own experiences as a former player, stating that a charged atmosphere elevates a player's emotional state, energy, and confidence, effectively creating a "different team."
"They have been unbelievable again this season, and it makes such a difference," Arteta said. "The level of energy, commitment, confidence, and desire that we can show in every action is transmitted by them, and we need them tomorrow in every ball."
Stadium Display and Team News
Supporters are encouraged to be in their seats by 7:45 p.m. to participate in a pre-match 'stadium-wide fan-activated display'. This initiative mirrors the successful tifo unveiled before the North London Derby earlier this season, which featured icons like Thierry Henry and Tony Adams alongside current stars Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka.
On the injury front, Arsenal will be without defenders Riccardo Calafiori (muscle) and Cristhian Mosquera (ankle), though Arteta hinted at a possible return soon as they enter the final stage of rehabilitation. There is more positive news regarding Kai Havertz, who is "very close" to a return after training and could be available for selection.
Chance for Revenge and Title Intent
This match presents Arsenal with an opportunity to avenge one of their only two Premier League defeats this season. Liverpool edged the earlier fixture thanks to a Dominik Szoboszlai free-kick. Fresh from avenging their loss to Aston Villa last week, the Gunners are motivated by an impressive home record, having suffered just one defeat at the Emirates since May.
A victory would keep Arsenal at least seven points clear at the top, significantly strengthening their quest to end a 21-year wait for the Premier League title. Arteta, while respectful of Liverpool's threat, knows that a roaring Emirates crowd could be the decisive factor in this crucial title-race battle.
