Liverpool Face Rising Defensive Issues as Arsenal Prepare for Villa Challenge

Liverpool head to Leeds this weekend amid increasing doubts about whether Arne Slot can halt their decline, while strong Aston Villa target the top of the Premier League table against leaders Arsenal.

Slot's title-holders are revealing serious weaknesses in defence, with skipper Virgil van Dijk's subpar performances becoming a key worry.

Arsenal present a contrasting picture of solidity, yet the Gunners encounter a challenging away match against Unai Emery's Villa side.

AFP Sport examines three key discussion points before the matches begin:

Van Dijk's mistakes pile up

Mohamed Salah's dip in form has dominated conversations during Liverpool's sharp downturn, but now Virgil van Dijk finds himself under intense scrutiny too.

The team viewed securing fresh deals for two of their all-time stars in April as a significant achievement.

However, concerns are mounting regarding Van Dijk's showings in the middle of a shaky backline.

Ex-Manchester United and England striker Wayne Rooney noted in October that Van Dijk's on-pitch demeanour raised major flags and that he had not guided the squad effectively this term.

The 34 year-old Dutch player conceded a penalty via handball in Liverpool's 4-1 loss at home to PSV Eindhoven last week, marking the third such error across all tournaments this season.

He also contributed to Sunderland's strike during Wednesday's 1-1 stalemate at Anfield, losing possession before retreating as Chemsdine Talbi outfoxed keeper Alisson Becker with a strike from distance.

"Last season Virgil Van Dijk was flawless in every match, always commanding respect," observed ex-Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp on Sky Sports.

"Yet these days he is erring frequently and lacking confidence."

Villa's impressive revival

Unai Emery's reputation soars as Aston Villa surge ahead.

The Midlands outfit failed to score in their opening four league fixtures this campaign, but they have triumphed in eight of their last nine domestic outings to reach third place.

A highlight in their 4-3 victory over Brighton midweek came from Ollie Watkins netting twice, having managed only one goal prior this term.

A success against Arsenal on Saturday would leave them merely three points adrift of Mikel Arteta's pacesetters.

Villa, managed by ex-Arsenal head Emery, have dropped points just once in their previous four clashes with the Gunners.

Former Liverpool player Danny Murphy credits the Spanish coach's composure in tense moments.

"He stayed level-headed early on," Murphy shared with the BBC. "His guidance and leadership have been outstanding, and the squad is thriving in response."

Sunderland surpass predictions

Sunderland buck trends and recent Premier League patterns as they gear up for a stern examination at Manchester City.

Over the last two years, all three promoted sides have returned promptly to the Championship.

While Leeds and Burnley, who ascended alongside Sunderland, falter, Regis Le Bris's group excels, trailing second-placed City by five points alone.

The Black Cats nearly secured their first Anfield triumph in 42 years on Wednesday, but settled for a 1-1 result following Nordi Mukiele's unlucky own goal.

In his debut year leading Sunderland, French coach Le Bris commended his players.

"Learning quickly stands as a core asset for this squad," he remarked.

"They remain grounded and eager to improve. In this demanding competition, constant growth is essential to maintain standards."

Merely Arsenal and Crystal Palace have shipped fewer than Sunderland's 14 goals in the top flight, although the Black Cats confront a formidable foe in Pep Guardiola's prolific City team.

Upcoming matches

Saturday (1500 GMT unless noted)

Aston Villa versus Arsenal (1230), Bournemouth versus Chelsea, Everton versus Nottingham Forest, Manchester City versus Sunderland, Newcastle versus Burnley, Tottenham versus Brentford, Leeds versus Liverpool (1730)

Sunday

Brighton versus West Ham (1400), Fulham versus Crystal Palace (1630)

Monday

Wolves versus Manchester United (2000)