Mikel Arteta hails Liverpool’s Thiago Alcantara

Asked if Arsenal tried to sign Thiago, Arteta said: “We don’t discuss the things we try and do in the market, but I like him from my time in Barcelona.

“Incredible personality, great talent, very special, great qualities to play in midfield and yes, I think he is a great signing for Liverpool.”

Arsenal has been in fine form since the end of June, winning the 2019/20 FA Cup and finding themselves unbeaten in their last eight matches in all competitions – winning seven – ahead of another huge test against the Premier League champions, who have won their opening two matches.

“The games we played at the Emirates [which Arsenal won 2-1] and the Shield were very different,” Arteta added. “I think it will be different again. We know the standards they have set in this league and how consistent they have been.

“They dominate almost every aspect of the game. We need to be at our best, we need to compete really well, and hopefully, the boys are ready to do that on Monday.”

The Gunners will travel to Anfield to play the defending champions on Monday, September 28, 2020.